Union Minister for Food and Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi has strongly criticized the Karnataka Congress-led government for choosing to use ballot papers instead of EVMs in local body elections. Joshi expressed disappointment, calling it a regressive step that undermines the progress made in electoral processes over the years. He highlighted Karnataka’s historical role in pioneering EVM usage and emphasized the importance of continuing with modern voting technologies.
Joshi pointed out that the decision to revert to ballot papers goes against the trust people have in EVMs, as evidenced by recent surveys. He emphasized the effectiveness of EVMs in reducing electoral malpractices and enhancing public confidence in the electoral system. Despite Karnataka’s significant contribution to the EVM revolution in India, the government’s choice to move back to outdated methods has drawn criticism for being regressive.
The Karnataka State Election Commission recently announced that ballot papers will be used in the upcoming Bengaluru civic polls instead of EVMs. This decision has sparked debates, with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar mentioning the possibility of conducting all local body elections simultaneously. While some support the use of ballot papers, others argue for the continued use of EVMs to ensure efficient and transparent electoral processes.
