Is the Move to Ballot Papers an Insult to E-Voting in Karnataka?
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Synopsis
Former Karnataka minister S. Suresh Kumar criticizes the Congress-led government's shift from EVMs to ballot papers, branding it an affront to Bengaluru's tech reputation. He urges the government to seek public consent if they doubt EVMs, echoing concerns about the implications of such a regressive move.
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru is criticized for reverting to ballot papers.
- S. Suresh Kumar calls for accountability from the Congress government.
- The decision undermines the credibility of EVMs.
- Concerns about digital progress in Karnataka are raised.
- The Supreme Court supports the use of EVMs.
Bengaluru, Sep 5 (NationPress) S. Suresh Kumar, a former minister in Karnataka and a member of the BJP, criticized the Congress-led government's decision to revert to ballot papers instead of utilizing EVMs, labeling it a significant affront to the reputation of Bengaluru, known as the technology hub of India.
During a press briefing held at the BJP state office, ‘Jagannath Bhavan’, he stated that the Congress party is quick to blame EVMs for their losses, despite having won the elections in May 2023 through EVMs. “If they now have doubts about the EVMs, they should dissolve the Assembly and seek a fresh mandate from the public,” he remarked.
He further condemned the Cabinet meeting on September 4, characterizing it as perilous for the state. “In this era of Artificial Intelligence, the Cabinet's choices are steeped in ignorance,” he quipped.
Kumar expressed concern that such arrogance, believing that “whatever we do is right since we have a majority,” could lead to the government’s downfall. The decision to bring back ballot papers in local elections is an outright insult to Bengaluru, the Silicon City of India, he asserted.
He warned that in their attempt to appease their leader, they might even consider banning PhonePe and digital transactions, favoring cash payments instead. “This is the kind of apprehension we are experiencing,” he commented.
He emphasized that even the Supreme Court has endorsed the reliability of EVMs.
“Numerous nations around the globe admire India’s electoral framework and are adopting it. However, this government, in an effort to please their leader, has declared a decision against using EVMs. He highlighted that deputy chief ministers and ministers from various sectors have robustly defended this decision. The BJP vehemently denounces this regressive step, which drags the state back into a bygone era,” he stated.
“In today’s world, countless initiatives and programs are being carried out via digital platforms. With a single click from the Prime Minister, millions of farmers receive funds directly in their bank accounts within moments. In such a progressive nation, the Congress government claims advancement while behaving in ways that contradict progress. True progress requires a forward-thinking vision, yet Congress only showcases a destructive perspective,” he charged.
Kumar recalled the words of Minister Parameshwara: “We were winning earlier, you know?” and remarked, “This is precisely the past they wish to drag Karnataka back into.” Meanwhile, they bemoan ‘vote theft.’ Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself confessed in 1991, during his contest in Koppal, that the Congress rigged the elections to defeat him.”
Joining him at the press conference were Opposition Chief Whip in the Legislative Council N. Ravikumar, former MLC Amarnath Patil, and Koppal district president Dadesagur Basavaraj.
Point of View
The recent remarks made by BJP legislator S. Suresh Kumar reflect a larger debate on the integrity of the electoral process in India. While the government’s shift back to ballot papers raises questions about trust in technology, it also highlights the political maneuvering that often accompanies electoral reforms. As discussions continue, it remains crucial to prioritize the democratic process and ensure the public's voice is heard.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the shift to ballot papers controversial?
The shift is seen as a challenge to the credibility of electronic voting machines (EVMs) that have been used successfully in past elections, raising concerns about transparency and trust in the electoral process.
What does S. Suresh Kumar propose if EVMs are doubted?
He suggests that the Congress government should dissolve the Assembly and seek a fresh mandate from the public if they have lost faith in the EVMs.
How does this decision affect Bengaluru's reputation?
Kumar argues that reverting to ballot papers is an insult to Bengaluru, known as the Silicon City of India, which prides itself on technological advancements.
What are the implications for digital initiatives?
The move could hinder the progress of digital initiatives and lead to a regressive step in the state's governance, according to Kumar.
What does the Supreme Court say about EVMs?
The Supreme Court has upheld the credibility of EVMs, reinforcing their legitimacy in the electoral process.
