INDI Alliance Unveils 'Old' EVM Concerns: Seeks 100 Per Cent Counting Of Paper Trail Machine Slips

In a significant development, the opposition INDIA bloc has voiced apprehensions regarding the reliability of electronic voting machines (EVMs) during their fourth gathering.

Comprising 28 opposition party leaders, the coalition proposed a resolution expressing concerns about the integrity of EVMs and suggesting measures to enhance transparency in the electoral process.

The resolution as reported by NDTV, unanimously approved, highlights the need for voters to be provided with voter verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips.

Rather than directly depositing the VVPAT slip into the box, the proposal suggests that voters should receive the slip after confirming their choice and then place it in a separate ballot box.

The resolution also emphasises the importance of conducting a full count of all VVPAT slips to ensure the integrity and impartiality of elections.

However, despite the opposition parties submitting a detailed memorandum to the Election Commission of India (ECI) outlining specific queries about EVM design and functioning, there has been no response from the ECI.

The resolution, further, expresses disappointment with the ECI's reluctance to arrange a meeting with an Indian delegation to address these concerns.

The opposition's focus on EVM reliability comes in the wake of recent state assembly elections, particularly in light of the BJP's victories.

The leaders of various opposition parties believe that collectively bringing attention to this issue is crucial for maintaining public trust in the electoral process.