Maharashtra’s Chief Electoral Officer, S. Chockalingam, has issued a stern warning of legal action against those spreading false claims or insinuations about tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). This comes in response to ongoing allegations from leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) regarding EVM malpractices in the recent Maharashtra assembly elections.
Chockalingam emphasized that any attempts to sensationalize these allegations would be met with strict legal consequences as investigations intensify. The Election Commission has filed an FIR against Syed Shuja, who is believed to be abroad, and has contacted relevant authorities to ensure the matter is properly pursued. The Delhi and Mumbai Police are actively investigating to identify and apprehend individuals involved in spreading these false claims or those collaborating with the accused.
Maharashtra NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Jayant Patil had raised concerns about the increase in voter turnout after 5 pm during the elections, questioning the integrity of the EVMs. He suggested that ballot papers should replace EVMs to restore public trust in the electoral process. “Voting increased dramatically in Maharashtra after 5 pm, and the EVM seems to automatically adjust the vote count,” Patil remarked, calling for an inquiry into the matter. He also criticized the Election Commission, alleging a cover-up.
Patil, whose party faced a significant defeat in the elections, with the NCP securing only 10 seats, continued to press for the return of paper ballots, believing it would enhance transparency and voter confidence. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance emerged victorious with 132 seats, while its allies, the Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, secured 57 and 41 seats, respectively.
