Mayawati Questions EVM Credibility, Calls for Return to Ballot Papers

Mayawati Raises Concerns Over EVMs

In Lucknow, Mayawati, the national president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), expressed serious doubts about the reliability of elections conducted via Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) on Thursday. Following a significant meeting with BSP officials in Uttar Pradesh, she demanded a return to the ballot paper system, alleging that EVMs are being used as a tool to undermine fair and independent voting.

The former Chief Minister stated that as the BSP worked to foster unity and awareness among the marginalized communities, a new method to influence free voting emerged. She asserted that a substantial portion of the populace no longer views the EVM system as transparent and is advocating for the reinstatement of the traditional ballot paper method. Mayawati also pointed out that the BSP was the first party to oppose EVMs, but at that time, neither the ruling party nor other opposition parties supported her initiative. Additionally, she criticized the Congress party for its historical involvement in electoral irregularities.

Linking the credibility of the electoral process to the nation's social and economic issues, Mayawati highlighted that challenges such as poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, migration, and corruption stem from the absence of a free, fair, and accountable electoral system. She praised the younger generation (Generation Z) for bringing new energy to this issue, transforming it into a public movement, while noting that efforts are being made to suppress this voice at all levels. During this meeting, which was held in preparation for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections, she emphasized that electoral integrity is essential for safeguarding the rights of the poor and unemployed youth.