Congress Advocates Full VVPAT Counting to Safeguard Against Voting Manipulation
Beyond EVMs: Congress Emphasizes Transparency Through Comprehensive VVPAT Verification
New Delhi, 17-03-2024 : The Congress reiterated its stance on electronic voting machines (EVMs) on Sunday, emphasizing that it does not oppose their use but rather condemns any potential manipulation. They urged for the full counting of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary, reiterated the party’s call, alongside other political entities, for the complete tallying of VVPAT slips to dispel any doubts cast upon the voting system by the electorate. He clarified that while the Congress does not advocate a return to paper ballots, they advocate for thorough VVPAT counting to reassure voters.
“At the INDIA alliance meeting on December 19, 2023, it was unanimously agreed that our concern lies not with EVMs per se, but with the potential for electronic voting manipulation. Our request is simple: ensure 100 per cent counting and cross-referencing of VVPATs,” Ramesh explained.
He stressed that the objection was not against EVMs themselves, but rather against any possible tampering with the electronic voting process. Ramesh emphasized the importance of counting VVPATs alongside EVMs to maintain the credibility of the voting process, particularly as some individuals have lost faith in the current system.
Furthermore, Ramesh highlighted the opposition’s attempts to engage with the Election Commission (EC) on this matter, expressing frustration at the EC’s reluctance to schedule meetings to discuss the demand for comprehensive VVPAT counting.
“We will submit our evidence supporting our stance to the EC and voice our demand. We seek fair and impartial elections. Why does the EC shy away from engaging with us on this critical issue?” he questioned, raising doubts about the EC’s intentions.
