Is There Vote Rigging in the Nuapada Bypoll?
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Synopsis
The BJD has raised serious allegations regarding the integrity of the recent Nuapada bypoll, claiming irregular voter turnout and manipulation by the ruling BJP. With demands for transparency and accountability, the political landscape in Odisha is heating up as the vote counting approaches.
Key Takeaways
- The BJD claims large-scale vote manipulation in Nuapada.
- Voter turnout rose significantly after polling hours.
- Accusations include government officials aiding the BJP.
- CCTV footage is requested to verify voting legitimacy.
- Vote counting to start under strict security measures.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) accused of extensive vote manipulation in the recent bypoll for the Nuapada Assembly constituency.
During a media briefing, BJD Vice President Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak stated, "Election officials reported a voter turnout of 75 percent by 5 p.m. on polling day. Yet, subsequent reports showed an increase to 83.5 percent. Although high voter turnout is commendable for democracy, the more than 8 percent rise after the official closing time raises significant concerns."
He further claimed that the reported turnout of over 91 percent at approximately 41 booths indicated potential vote tampering during the bypoll.
Nayak also expressed that numerous government officials had provided unfair assistance to the ruling BJP during the election campaign.
In a related development, senior BJD leader and spokesperson Lenin Mohanty insisted that the CCTV footage from all booths with over 90 percent voter turnout be shared with the party, as this could determine whether legitimate voting occurred or if there was any manipulation.
He mentioned circulating videos on social media depicting EVM machines being moved in private vehicles, which heightens concerns about the transparency of the election process overseen by the Election Commission of India.
"Following candidate theft and vote theft, we are now witnessing booth theft," Lenin remarked.
Both the BJD and Congress have leveled serious accusations against the ruling BJP leaders and workers for breaching the model code of conduct during the campaigning and on voting day for the Nuapada bypoll on November 11.
The opposition parties also criticized state government officials for showing undue favoritism towards BJP leaders and candidate Jay Dholakia during the bypolls.
Importantly, the counting of votes is scheduled to commence at around 8 a.m. on Friday morning, accompanied by a three-tier security arrangement.
The counting of postal ballots will take precedence, followed by the tallying of votes cast through EVMs.
Point of View
The allegations raised by the BJD regarding the Nuapada bypoll highlight significant concerns about electoral integrity. It is essential to investigate these claims thoroughly to uphold the democratic process and ensure that elections are conducted fairly, reflecting the will of the people.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against the BJP in the Nuapada bypoll?
The BJD has accused the BJP of vote manipulation, citing unusual voter turnout and undue support from government officials.
Why is the voter turnout in Nuapada controversial?
The reported increase in voter turnout from 75% to 83.5% after polling closed has raised suspicions of rigging.
What action has the BJD demanded regarding the election process?
The BJD has called for the release of CCTV footage from booths with over 90% turnout to ensure transparency.
When will the vote counting take place?
The counting of votes is set to begin at 8 a.m. on Friday, under tight security.
What has Lenin Mohanty said about the situation?
Lenin Mohanty referred to the incident as 'booth theft' and called for accountability in the election process.
