India should get rid of EVMs as its biggest threat to democracy of India: Tony

SUCHETGARH, November 30: Senior Congress leader and DDC Suchetgarh, Taranjit Singh Tony has raised serious concerns over the growing doubts surrounding the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and the recent surge in polling figures that has left many in shock. His remarks come in the wake of a startling increase of 76 lakh votes after polling had officially concluded in Maharashtra on November 20, 2024, an unprecedented surge that has raised alarms across the nation.

While interacting with people in Suchetgarh, the senior Congress leader said EVMs have increasingly become a symbol of doubts and suspicions, especially after the unusual surge in voting figures witnessed in several assembly elections this year. The recent 7.83% increase in Maharashtra’s polling data, which translates to nearly 76 lakh votes being cast post the official closure of polling, is absolutely baffling. “This irregularity demands an urgent and thorough investigation into the functioning of EVMs, as it undermines the very foundation of our electoral system,” he added.

He said there has been a minimal change in the surge of voting figures in the last hour in previous elections. “How can there be such a drastic surge in voting figures?” he questioned. The surge in voting during the last hour is particularly suspicious, as historically, most polls see only a maximum of a 1% change. However, this time, a shocking 6% increase, amounting to 76 lakh votes, has been reported, which is highly irregular and requires immediate scrutiny.

He alleged that the Election Commission is in collusion with BJP, suggesting that this is part of their main game plan. He stated that both excessively low and excessively high charging of EVM battery, are also suspicious, particularly in the context of the Maharashtra elections. Such irregularities could raise concerns about the credibility and reliability of the voting process. The sudden increase in voting figures only after the polling stations were officially closed raises serious questions.

Tony pointed out similar trends in other states such as Haryana, where the BJP’s victory was marked by a remarkable rise in voter turnout. In Maharashtra, the provisional polling figure stood at 58% when polling ended, but it inexplicably shot up to 66% hours before counting began—an increase that cannot be easily justified, he added.

“The figures are not only unbelievable but raise serious concerns about the credibility of the process. It is highly improbable that 76 lakh voters could have voted after polling officially ended. This defies logic and calls into question the transparency of the voting system,” he emphasized.

Taranjit Singh Tony also pointed out that the Election Commission has continuously stonewalled efforts to address these anomalies. The Commission has refused to release key data, such as the slips handed to voters in queues or the video footage of voters, further deepening the suspicion surrounding the process, 99 per cent battery level of EVM, etc. he added.

“The lack of accountability and transparency is fueling distrust in the electoral process. It is time for all political leaders, irrespective of party affiliations, to come together and demand a reevaluation of the use of EVMs. The integrity of our elections is paramount, and we cannot afford to let suspicion erode the trust of the people,” he stated.

The Congress leader has urged all citizens to unite and demand answers from the Election Commission and the authorities to safeguard the sanctity of India’s democracy.