Delhi Election: EC Rebuffs EVM and Voter List Allegations

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts:

1. The Election Commission (EC) of Delhi has dismissed allegations regarding tampering with EVMs and voter lists ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
2. EC clarified that the entire election process, from voter list creation to voting, is transparent and involves consultations with political parties.
3. Both AAP and BJP had raised concerns about potential irregularities in the voter list, but EC assured that such claims are unfounded.
4. The EC also affirmed that the EVMs used in the election are secure and free from tampering or malfunction.
5. Changes in voter turnout numbers, according to the EC, happen due to delayed reports from polling stations, which are cross-verified.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth:

Election Commission’s Stand:

In the wake of allegations surrounding the voter list and EVMs for the Delhi Assembly elections 2025, the Election Commission (EC) has provided clarifications to counter these claims. Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar explained that the preparation of the voter list involves 70 steps, during which political parties are continuously consulted, ensuring that there is full transparency throughout the process. Political parties have the right to appoint Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and voice their concerns, with all objections raised being addressed before finalizing the list.

Rebuttal of EVM Tampering Allegations:

Both the AAP and the BJP accused each other of tampering with the EVMs, a situation that has sparked a wider debate. The Election Commission firmly denied these allegations, declaring EVMs to be foolproof devices with no possibility of malfunction or tampering. As noted by the commission, multiple legal rulings from the Supreme Court and High Courts have upheld the credibility of EVMs, further discrediting claims that the technology is prone to fraud.

Voter List Transparency:

The controversy surrounding the electoral roll mainly stems from allegations of discrepancies in the list’s preparation. The Election Commission clarified that no deletions are made without a personal hearing, and there is no scope for wrongful additions. Political parties are involved in the process at every step, including the setting up of Booth Level Officers and regular meetings to review the list, providing ample opportunities for raising objections.

Voter Turnout Issues:

One of the other contested points concerned the fluctuations in voter turnout. The EC clarified that changes in the reported voter turnout are not due to deliberate manipulation but happen when polling stations submit their results late. The turnout report is thoroughly cross-checked and matched before final tallying, ensuring no errors or rigging.

Conclusion:

In summary, the Election Commission has taken definitive steps to dismiss all allegations about electoral malpractice. From the preparation of voter lists to the integrity of EVMs, all aspects of the electoral process have been conducted with complete transparency. By directly addressing concerns raised by political parties, the EC hopes to maintain public confidence as the Delhi Assembly elections approach.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember:

1. The Election Commission rejected all claims about voter list tampering and EVM malfunctions.
2. The preparation of the voter list follows 70 stages, involving consultation with political parties.
3. EVMs used in the election are completely secure and tamper-proof, as confirmed by the EC.
4. Changes in voter turnout numbers are due to delayed reporting and are cross-verified for accuracy.
5. The EC’s clarification helps quell political unrest ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.

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