Did EVM Manipulation Affect Bihar Election Results?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The RJD held a review meeting after a disappointing election outcome.
- Allegations of EVM manipulation are central to the party's concerns.
- The meeting included significant party leaders and discussed potential legal actions.
- Concerns were raised about the legitimacy of the election process and vote margins.
- RJD's substantial vote share indicates ongoing political support.
Patna, Nov 17 (NationPress) In the wake of a disappointing outcome in the Bihar Assembly elections, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) held an important review meeting on Monday.
The gathering featured RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, all victorious MLAs, and those who lost their bids.
Sources indicate that the party remains skeptical of the NDA's decisive triumph and is considering contesting the results through legal means.
Former Parbatta MLA Sanjeev Kumar voiced his strong discontent during a press interaction post-meeting, stating, “The result is certainly surprising. This is impossible without some form of manipulation.”
He rejected claims that the NDA's win stemmed solely from developmental efforts, asserting, “People are saying this is a victory for Nitish Kumar’s development. He has been involved in developments for years, yet did not achieve such a result. I, too, worked on development in my region, but I lost.”
Sanjeev reiterated his allegations regarding EVM manipulation.
“A list of 65 seats was prepared even before the election. My seat was on that list. The list was with an official, and I have seen it myself. These 65 seats were targeted,” he explained.
He also questioned the slim winning margins of RJD candidates.
Out of the 25 RJD MLAs who emerged victorious, many were anticipated to win by more than 50,000 votes, yet they only secured margins of 10,000 to 11,000 votes.
He emphasized that RJD’s total vote share—approximately 1.8 crore votes—clearly indicates that the party retained significant support despite the final seat count.
Similarly, Maner MLA Bhai Virendra echoed these accusations.
“There was fraud in the EVM, and we must fight against it,” he stated.
He claimed that RJD candidates were leading during the postal ballot count, but the narrative shifted once the EVM counting began.
“We won because of the ballot paper; we lost because of the EVM. We are analyzing the situation, and legal options are available to us. Such a result is surprising,” he added.
RJD candidate from Lalganj, Shivani Shukla, also questioned the results in her area.
She pointed out an independent candidate reportedly receiving no votes, calling it alarming and stating that inquiries will inevitably follow.
RJD leaders are expected to convene again soon to finalize their next steps, including potentially contacting the Election Commission or pursuing legal action.