Sharad Pawar Questions EVM Reliability, Calls for Public Action Against Electoral Irregularities

For the first time, NCP chief Sharad Pawar has raised doubts about the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and called on political parties to unite against possible irregularities in elections. His comments come amid growing concerns about the fairness of recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, which left many shocked by the unexpected results.

Allegations of EVM Manipulation and Protest by Baba Adhav

Opposition parties have blamed their losses on alleged EVM tampering, but most criticism has been limited to public statements. However, senior activist Dr. Baba Adhav, 95, staged a hunger strike at Mahatma Phule Wada on November 28, marking Mahatma Phule’s death anniversary, to protest election irregularities.

Recognizing the importance of the protest, Pawar met Adhav to express his support and discuss the issues. Speaking afterward, he highlighted widespread discontent across Maharashtra, saying, “People are uneasy about how the elections were conducted. Baba Adhav’s hunger strike reflects concerns over misuse of power and money to influence the results, which is unprecedented in state elections.”

Concerns Over EVMs

Pawar revealed that a presentation on EVM tampering was once shared with his party but wasn’t taken seriously at the time. Now, he says the unusual election outcomes raise serious questions. “We never doubted institutions like the Election Commission before, but the facts emerging now compel us to reconsider,” he said.

He also noted that 22 candidates have filed petitions for recounts but expressed doubt that these efforts would lead to significant changes.

Call for Public Action

Pawar urged the public to rise against election irregularities, stating, “Awareness and protests are needed to safeguard democracy. Baba Adhav’s hunger strike is a step in the right direction, but the people must also act. If we don’t, parliamentary democracy could be at risk.”

He criticized the government’s lack of concern over these issues and pointed out how opposition voices are being silenced in Parliament. “For six days, not a single national issue has been discussed because opposition leaders are stopped from speaking,” he added.

Growing Calls for Electoral Reform

Pawar’s remarks reflect the growing dissatisfaction among political and social groups about election transparency in India. His call for action adds momentum to the demand for electoral reforms to ensure fair and democratic processes.