Kerala Home Minister Dismisses EVM Hacking Claims Amid Calls for Investigation

In a recent press conference, Kerala's Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala dismissed claims of electronic voting machine (EVM) hacking discussed during a UDF meeting. Congress MP Rajmohan Unnithan has called for a thorough investigation into these allegations. Chennithala stated that no such discussions took place, but assured that if a formal complaint is filed, it will be investigated. Unnithan emphasized the seriousness of the claims and the need for accountability, highlighting the implications for democracy. The situation arises amid allegations against a local Congress leader regarding extortion related to EVM hacking claims. This unfolding story raises questions about electoral integrity in Kerala.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 14:22 IST

Minister Refutes EVM Hacking Allegations

Kasaragod (Kerala), July 27 - Kerala's Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala addressed the media on Monday, rejecting reports suggesting that the issue of electronic voting machine (EVM) hacking was discussed during a recent United Democratic Front (UDF) meeting at the district level following the assembly elections. However, Congress MP Rajmohan Unnithan has called for a thorough investigation into the matter. Chennithala stated at a press conference that the UDF district chairman informed him that no such topic was raised during the district committee meeting.

The minister remarked, "According to the UDF district chairman, there was no discussion on this matter. Someone may have mentioned it, but there was no conversation on this issue. I was not made aware of it." When reporters pointed out that Congress MP Rajmohan Unnithan had demanded a comprehensive investigation into the alleged EVM hacking claims, Chennithala responded that if a formal complaint is received, an inquiry will be conducted.

He added, "If the MP files a complaint, it will certainly be investigated." Shortly after, Unnithan, who was seated next to Chennithala at the press conference, presented a written complaint to the minister, reiterating his call for an in-depth investigation. Unnithan stated, "In the presence of everyone, I am submitting this complaint to the Home Minister and requesting a thorough investigation."

He emphasized that if the allegations of EVM hacking are found to be baseless, those providing such information to the media should face consequences. Conversely, if the claims are validated, it would be seen as an attempt to undermine democracy.

Unnithan remarked, "Rahul Gandhi has fought against alleged EVM hacking at the national level. Therefore, such attempts can never be accepted." Upon receiving the complaint, Chennithala reiterated that the allegations would be investigated, stating, "Now that we have received the complaint, it will definitely be looked into." Previously, Unnithan had labeled the alleged EVM hacking claims in Kasaragod district related to the recent assembly elections as a "serious crime."

His comments came against the backdrop of allegations against a local Congress leader in Kasaragod, who reportedly extorted money from some UDF candidates by claiming to possess techniques to thwart alleged BJP attempts at EVM hacking and ensure their victory in the assembly elections.