EVM Row in Nuapada: Voters Allege Votes for Congress Went to BJP

EVM Row in Nuapada: Voters Allege Votes for Congress Went to BJP

Questions Raised Over Reliability of EVMs in Nuapada By-Election

CNB World Times

Nuapada, Odisha, 12^th November: New questions have been raised about the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) after alleged irregularities in the Nuapada by-election.

Voters in several polling stations have expressed doubts after reports claimed that pressing the button for the Congress symbol “Hand” caused the BJP’s “Lotus” symbol to light up. A local daily published the allegations, saying that votes were recorded in favour of the BJP even when voters selected candidates from other parties.

According to reports, a photo from booth number 250 in Bhalukona under Komna block shows a voter’s finger on the Congress hand symbol, but the lotus light turning on. The incident has gone viral on social media and has appeared in newspapers.

It is alleged that many votes were automatically counted in favour of the BJP candidates. Voters complained that EVMs were malfunctioning when they voted for Congress, BJD, and other independent candidates. Following the complaints, the sector officer reportedly replaced the EVM and ordered a re-polling, as per local media reports. However, no official document confirming this has been found so far.

This incident has raised serious concerns among voters about the credibility of the voting process. It has also deepened doubts that have been voiced nationally by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who has repeatedly alleged vote manipulation with documentary evidence.

However, many political observers remain cautious. Experts believe that the Election Commission has implemented strict measures to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

At the same time, with assembly elections recently concluded in Bihar and by-elections held in other states, such incidents are once again raising questions about the credibility of India’s democratic system.

Political analysts suggest that the Election Commission should immediately investigate the matter and present the truth before the public. If the allegations are proven true, strict action should be taken. If found false, those spreading misinformation must face disciplinary measures.

In a democracy as large as India, safeguarding the people’s right to vote is of utmost importance. Every citizen’s trust in the electoral system must remain intact.