Sharad Pawar Raises Doubts Over EVMs: “We Were Given a Presentation on EVM Tampering, But…”
Sharad Pawar Raises Doubts Over EVMs: "We Were Given a Presentation on EVM Tampering, But…"
Sharad Pawar has, for the first time, publicly questioned the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), urging political parties to take a united stand against potential irregularities in the electoral process. The statement comes amidst rising concerns about the integrity of recent elections in Maharashtra.
The unexpected results of the Maharashtra Assembly elections have left many shocked, with opposition parties attributing their losses to alleged EVM manipulation. While political parties have largely confined their dissent to rhetoric, senior social activist Dr. Baba Adhav, 95, staged a hunger strike at Mahatma Phule Wada on the occasion of Mahatma Phule’s death anniversary, protesting against perceived election irregularities. Recognizing the significance of the protest, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar visited Baba Adhav on Thursday, November 28, to express solidarity and understand his concerns.
A Wave of Discontent Across the State
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Pawar highlighted widespread discontent following the election results. “There is a palpable sense of unease across Maharashtra about the election process. Baba Adhav’s decision to undertake this hunger strike reflects his concern over the unprecedented misuse of power and the flood of money that influenced the elections. Such blatant misconduct is unheard of in state elections,” Pawar said.
Pawar expressed alarm at the unprecedented levels of irregularities observed during the elections, noting, “While we have heard of such practices in local elections, this was the first time such misuse occurred on a state level. This has understandably disturbed the public.”
Concerns Over EVM Manipulation
Responding to questions on alleged EVM tampering, Pawar revealed, “We were once given a presentation on how EVMs could be manipulated. Unfortunately, we did not act on it or believe in its implications back then. But now, the election outcomes raise significant questions. Earlier, we never doubted institutions like the Election Commission. However, this time, facts are surfacing that compel us to reconsider.”
Pawar noted that 22 candidates from the state have already filed petitions for recounts, but expressed skepticism over whether this would yield meaningful results.
“A Public Uprising is Necessary”
Sharad Pawar stressed the importance of mobilizing public sentiment against electoral malpractice, saying, “We must return to the people to raise awareness and mobilize them to protest against these irregularities. The public is aware and must now be prepared to act. The impact of Baba Adhav’s movement will inevitably be felt sooner or later.”
Parliamentary Democracy at Stake
Pawar warned that inaction could erode the country’s democratic fabric. “Baba Adhav’s hunger strike provides solace to the common man, as he has taken a stand as part of his national duty. But his efforts alone are insufficient. The people must also rise. If not, parliamentary democracy will be destroyed,” he cautioned.
Criticizing the government’s indifference, he added, “Those in power seem unconcerned about these issues. Even in Parliament, opposition voices are stifled. Every day at 11 a.m., opposition leaders stand to raise pressing issues, but they are silenced. In the last six days, not a single national issue has been discussed in Parliament,” Pawar lamented.
The NCP leader’s remarks underscore growing dissatisfaction among political and social circles about the transparency and fairness of elections in India, adding momentum to calls for electoral reforms.
