Amid post-poll scrutiny in Kerala, Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, has called for stringent monitoring at Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) storage centers. He emphasized the importance of continuous vigilance to ensure transparency and protect electoral integrity. Satheesan directed United Democratic Front (UDF) candidates and officials to exercise caution at EVM strongrooms across the state.
As the state anticipates the vote count, Satheesan highlighted the provision allowing candidates to have representatives in control rooms overseeing surveillance cameras at EVM storage locations. He stressed the necessity of having a designated representative present round the clock to supervise activities. To enable this, candidates were instructed to secure permissions from District Collectors.
The Opposition leader emphasized the crucial role of UDF representatives in maintaining public trust in the electoral process through uninterrupted monitoring. This move aligns with the broader strategy of the Opposition to ensure strict oversight post-election, especially in addressing past concerns about voting machine security. While election authorities assure robust security measures for EVMs, political parties often implement additional monitoring mechanisms.
Satheesan’s directive signifies a united effort within the UDF to stay vigilant until the election results are announced, underscoring the alliance’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Kerala conducted polls on April 9 to elect 140 legislators, with the vote count scheduled for May 4, eagerly anticipated by all political parties in the state.
