Nayab Saini government in Haryana faces risk destabilisation as EVMs and ballot papers will be matched at 9 polling booths.
The unexpected outcome in the recent Haryana asembly elections-2024 left Congress leaders unsettled, prompting them to raise concerns about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and approach the Election Commission with their grievances.
Row over battery levels of EVMs
The controversy centered on the battery levels of EVMs, which Congress claimed played a role in their defeat. State Congress President Udaybhan and former Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda submitted a written complaint to the Election Commission. They argued that Congress candidates lost in constituencies where EVM batteries were 99% charged but won in areas where the batteries were between 60% and 70% charged. This raised suspicions of tampering, particularly in 20 to 22 constituencies.
EC dismissed the allegation
In response, the Election Commission, represented by Rajiv Kumar, dismissed the allegations, stating that no evidence of rigging was found during the Haryana elections. The Commission urged political leaders to exercise caution when making public statements, especially in sensitive political climates.
EVMs and ballot papers from nine polling booths to be matched
Amid the controversy, the focus has now shifted to the Rania assembly seat in Sirsa district, where Congress candidate Sarvamitra Kamboj narrowly lost to INLD candidate Arjun Chautala by 4,191 votes. Former minister Ranjit Chautala also faced defeat in this constituency. Following an appeal by Kamboj, the District Election Officer (DEO) has ordered matching of EVMs and ballot papers from nine polling booths.
This process will take place from January 9 to January 13 at a designated warehouse near Sirsa's Traffic Park. If discrepancies are found, it could have broader implications for other constituencies and increase challenges for the BJP-led Naib Saini government. Congress has hinted at the possibility of seeking similar checks in the other 20 disputed seats by paying the necessary fees.
Cong's position could get a boost
Should the matching process reveal inconsistencies in the Rania constituency, it could boost Congress’s position and further strain BJP's governance. The situation remains dynamic, and all eyes are on the upcoming verification process. Congress leaders hope the findings will validate their concerns, potentially setting a precedent for addressing similar disputes in other constituencies.
Prakash Kumar Pandey
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