Should ZP and Panchayat Samiti Elections in Maharashtra Use Ballot Papers?
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Synopsis
Nana Patole, a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, advocates for the use of ballot papers in the upcoming ZP and Panchayat Samiti elections, highlighting flaws in the current EVM system. He warns of diminishing voter trust and calls for greater transparency in the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- Nana Patole advocates for ballot papers in ZP and Panchayat Samiti elections.
- Concerns about voter trust and turnout are rising.
- Recent municipal elections highlighted serious flaws in the EVM system.
- Several states have moved toward using ballot papers for local elections.
- Transparency in the electoral process is crucial for democracy.
Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) - Nana Patole, the former head of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee and a senior legislator, has urged that the forthcoming Zilla Parishad (ZP) and Panchayat Samiti elections in the state should be carried out using ballot papers rather than Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
In correspondence directed to State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Patole expressed concerns that the recently held elections for 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra have revealed significant flaws within the existing electoral framework.
The disturbingly low voter turnout in urban areas is not just indicative of voter disinterest; it reflects a waning public trust in the electoral system.
Patole highlighted that a number of states across India have transitioned to using ballot papers in local elections, which has helped maintain transparency and reduce controversies.
“Why is there such a strong preference for EVMs in Maharashtra? Who benefits from this decision? These are the pressing questions that voters are raising. To honor public sentiment, the administration should revert to ballot papers,” he argued.
His letter pointed out numerous critical problems encountered during the recent municipal elections, which he characterized as indicators of the Election Commission's “serious inefficiency.”
“Voter list inaccuracies caused confusion regarding names and missing entries. Voters faced logistical challenges, wandering for hours to locate polling stations. Many were forced to leave without voting due to mismanagement. The most alarming issue was the absence of VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) systems, denying voters the right to verify their votes,” Patole elaborated to support his case for conducting Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections with ballot papers.
He also mentioned instances of electoral ink being easily washed away with water, further jeopardizing the integrity of the electoral process.
Stressing the importance of Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis as the foundation of democracy, Patole cautioned that an environment of suspicion and distrust could have severe repercussions for the “health of democracy.”
He called upon authorities to prioritize transparency over technology to restore the public’s faith in the electoral mandate.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the growing concerns regarding the electoral process in Maharashtra. Nana Patole's advocacy for ballot papers highlights a significant public sentiment that demands transparency and accountability in elections. This issue goes beyond political affiliations and taps into the core values of democracy, ensuring that every vote counts and is verifiable.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Nana Patole want to switch to ballot papers?
Patole believes that using ballot papers will enhance transparency and restore public trust in the electoral process, especially after recent municipal elections revealed significant flaws.
What issues did Patole highlight regarding the recent elections?
He pointed out discrepancies in voter lists, logistical hurdles in finding polling booths, and the absence of VVPAT systems as critical problems that undermined the electoral process.
How have other states handled local elections?
Several states across India have successfully conducted local body elections using ballot papers to ensure transparency and minimize controversies.
