Ravi Shankar Prasad Critiques Mamata Banerjee's EVM Comments Amid Poll Pressure
Synopsis
In a heated exchange, BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad accused Mamata Banerjee of showing frustration over her EVM comments as election pressures mount. This reflects the growing intensity of political discourse ahead of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized Mamata Banerjee for her comments on EVMs.
He suggested her remarks stem from frustration due to electoral pressure.
Banerjee urged voters to be vigilant about EVMs and polling integrity.
Political discourse is intensifying ahead of the West Bengal elections.
Critics labeled her comments as anti-democratic .
New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) Senior BJP figure Ravi Shankar Prasad sharply criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her comments questioning the credibility of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), asserting that her remarks are born out of frustration as electoral pressures mount.
Responding to Banerjee’s statements, Prasad remarked, “Mamata Banerjee is losing and is frustrated. She has achieved victory twice using EVMs, hasn’t she? How did she ascend to the Chief Minister’s position? Through EVMs, correct? Yes, there are claims of ballot paper tampering in gram panchayat elections. So, when you win via EVMs, it’s acceptable, but now that there’s a chance of defeat, you label the system as faulty? What kind of logic is that?”
He also noted that numerous opposition leaders, including representatives from the Congress party, have been elected through EVMs. “Currently, the Congress is in power in various regions, and their MPs have also secured seats via EVMs. This type of frustration is merely an indicator that Mamata Banerjee is facing defeat,” he stated.
In alignment with these views, Rajiv Ranjan, the National Spokesperson for JD(U), described Banerjee’s remarks as “anti-democratic.” He commented, “This statement undermines democracy. Voting is a civic obligation, and any counsel to abstain, particularly from an elected Chief Minister, is profoundly regrettable and worthy of condemnation.”
These remarks arise amidst escalating political discussions as the upcoming elections for the West Bengal Legislative Assembly draw near.
On Saturday, Banerjee urged voters to pause polling if EVMs malfunctioned and to stay vigilant against any attempts to manipulate the election process. Speaking at a rally in Manikchak, she encouraged voters to demand replacements for defective machines and observe polling procedures closely.
Additionally, she alleged that the BJP might attempt to obstruct genuine voters from accessing polling stations using the Central Armed Police Forces, warning citizens to remain alert to outsiders who might influence voters.
CM Banerjee stressed the importance of vigilance during the counting stage and called on residents, especially women, to actively participate in safeguarding the electoral process as the political climate in the state intensifies ahead of the elections.
Point of View
Leaders are becoming more vocal and accusatory, indicating a highly charged electoral atmosphere that could influence voter sentiments significantly.
NationPress
12 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ravi Shankar Prasad say about Mamata Banerjee's EVM comments?
He accused her of being frustrated and losing, criticizing her logic about EVMs.
How did Mamata Banerjee respond to EVM issues?
She urged voters to stop polling if EVMs malfunction and to remain vigilant.
What was the context of the exchange?
It occurred as political tensions rise ahead of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections.
What did other political figures say about Banerjee's remarks?
JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan called her comments 'anti-democratic'.
What is the significance of EVMs in Indian elections?
EVMs are crucial for the voting process, and questions about their integrity can impact public trust.
