EVM: Dead or Alive? PM Modi Takes Aim at Opposition

EVM: Dead or Alive? PM Modi Takes Aim at Opposition

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a fresh attack on the opposition over its allegations of electronic voting machine (EVM) tampering, asserting that the opposition is “dead” and clinging to the “dead body of EVMs.”

Addressing a rally in Bihar’s Chhapra, Modi said, “The opposition is like a ‘dead body’ which cannot be revived. They are now clinging to the ‘dead body of EVMs’ in the hope of getting some oxygen.”

Opposition’s EVM Claims

The opposition has repeatedly alleged that EVMs have been tampered with to manipulate election results. In May 2019, the Congress and several other parties staged a protest in front of the Election Commission, demanding a return to paper ballots.

However, the Election Commission has consistently denied these allegations, stating that EVMs are tamper-proof and reliable. The Supreme Court has also upheld the use of EVMs.

Modi’s Defense of EVMs

Modi has been a staunch defender of EVMs, arguing that they have increased transparency and reduced the possibility of electoral fraud. He has also accused the opposition of using the EVM issue as an excuse for their own failures.

“The opposition knows that they cannot win elections with their policies and leadership,” Modi said. “So they are resorting to spreading lies and baseless accusations about EVMs.”

Opposition’s Response

The opposition has hit back at Modi’s comments, accusing him of disregarding their concerns and suppressing dissent. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that Modi’s “dictatorial and arrogant” behavior showed that he was “afraid of facing the truth.”

Conclusion

The debate over EVMs is likely to continue in the run-up to the 2024 general elections. While the opposition is unlikely to abandon its allegations, the Election Commission has repeatedly assured that EVMs are still the most reliable way to conduct free and fair elections.