Maharashtra Village to Conduct Unofficial Ballot Voting Over EVM Discrepancy
In an unusual move, the residents of Markadwadi village in Maharashtra’s Solapur district are set to conduct an unofficial “repoll” today using ballot papers. The initiative, led by supporters of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), aims to challenge the Election Commission’s (EC) data from the recently concluded assembly elections.
Markadwadi falls under the Malshiras constituency, where NCP (SP) candidate Uttamrao Jankar defeated BJP’s Ram Satpute. Despite Jankar’s victory, MVA supporters in the village have raised objections to EC-released figures showing Satpute leading in their locality.
Villagers have prepared for the unofficial polling by crowdfunding the printing of ballot papers, which include the names and photographs of all candidates who contested the Malshiras seat. Banners have been installed urging residents to participate in the exercise. A local resident, said, “Our village supported Jankar, yet EC data claims BJP polled higher votes here. We aim to verify the actual vote distribution through this ballot voting.”
Despite their efforts, the administration has not approved the process. Solapur Superintendent of Police Atul Kulkarni said notices were issued to villagers to prevent tensions and maintain order. “We are taking precautionary measures to avoid any law and order issues,” he added.
BJP supporters in the village have opposed the initiative, labeling it unnecessary. BJP supporter, stated, “This decision was made by a few individuals without involving the entire village. The election process is over, and we see no point in repeating it. We will boycott the exercise.”
NCP leader Uttamrao Jankar has supported the villagers’ move, emphasizing the need to restore public trust in election results. “This exercise is to reveal the truth. People in Markadwadi doubt the EC’s figures, and this will set an example,” he said.
Meanwhile, returning officer Vijay Pangarkar maintained that the original election process in Markadwadi’s booths was conducted transparently, and no discrepancies were found in the results.
Police deployment in the area aims to ensure the situation remains peaceful.
