Can Mayawati Revive BSP's Fortunes with Paper Ballots?
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Synopsis
Mayawati's recent call for a return to paper ballots highlights her belief that EVM manipulation has led to diminished electoral success for the BSP. As she rallies her party, the former Chief Minister emphasizes the need for unity among BSP supporters.
Key Takeaways
- Mayawati advocates for the return of paper ballots.
- Claims EVMs are manipulated to undermine her party.
- Calls for unity among BSP supporters.
- Warns against opportunistic leaders exploiting Dalit votes.
- Envisions a political shift that favors the BSP.
Lucknow, June 5 (NationPress) In a bid to bring back the traditional paper ballot system, Bahujan Samaj Party National President Mayawati criticized the supposed tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for her party’s recent electoral declines.
“Numerous Opposition parties, including ours, advocate for all elections, big and small, to be conducted with ballot papers as they were in the past. However, this is unlikely under the current administration,” Mayawati stated during a media briefing.
Amidst recent electoral setbacks, the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh urged her party members, saying, “A political shift in the country is inevitable, which will certainly restore the paper ballot system. Therefore, BSP supporters should remain optimistic and focus on fortifying our organization.”
She alleged that anti-Dalit elements have collaborated with other parties to undermine the BSP and manipulate EVMs to hinder the success of party candidates.
“Given the current political climate, the system associated with EVMs could change at any moment, leading to all elections being held via paper ballots. The resurgence of paper ballots would signal a positive turn for the BSP,” Mayawati asserted.
The Dalit leader also criticized those she claimed were attempting to mislead BSP supporters and weaken the advocacy for marginalized communities.
Making a veiled reference to the departure of former BSP MP from Bijnor, Malook Nagar, in April, she pointed out that Dalits would gain nothing from opportunistic leaders aligned with parties like the Congress, BJP, and Samajwadi Party.
Without naming the rising Dalit figure from Uttar Pradesh, Chandrashekhar Azad of the Azad Samaj Party (Kanshi Ram), Mayawati cautioned voters against opportunistic organizations and leaders who exploit the names of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram to fragment Dalit votes, ultimately serving other parties' interests.
Point of View
I believe Mayawati's call for paper ballots underscores a significant concern regarding electoral integrity in India. Her appeal resonates with many who fear that technology may compromise democracy. This demand reflects broader anxieties within the political landscape and calls for transparency and fairness in elections.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Mayawati want to reintroduce paper ballots?
Mayawati believes that the manipulation of EVMs has contributed to the BSP's electoral declines and that paper ballots would ensure greater integrity in elections.
What has been the BSP's recent electoral performance?
The BSP has faced significant electoral setbacks, prompting Mayawati to rally her party members for renewed focus and organization.
What does Mayawati say about anti-Dalit forces?
She alleges that anti-Dalit forces are collaborating with other parties to manipulate EVMs and weaken the BSP's chances in elections.
Who is Chandrashekhar Azad?
Chandrashekhar Azad is a rising Dalit leader from Uttar Pradesh, whom Mayawati references in her warning against opportunistic leaders who may split Dalit votes.
How does Mayawati view the future of the BSP?
Mayawati is optimistic about a political shift that could restore the use of paper ballots, which she believes would benefit the BSP.
