PM Modi Criticizes Opposition Over VVPAT Verdict
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the opposition parties following the Supreme Court’s decision to reject requests for 100 percent VVPAT verification of votes cast via electronic voting machines (EVMs). Speaking at a rally in Bihar amidst ongoing Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi accused the opposition of instilling doubt in the minds of the people regarding the reliability of EVMs.
Opposition’s Doubts Dismissed
PM Modi asserted that the dreams of the opposition bloc have been shattered with the Supreme Court’s verdict. He accused opposition leaders of committing the “sin” of casting aspersions on the credibility of EVMs, emphasizing the importance of the Supreme Court’s ruling in upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Historical Context
Reflecting on the past, PM Modi highlighted instances of electoral malpractices such as booth capturing that plagued the democratic process. He contrasted this with the present, where the introduction of EVMs has empowered voters, much to the chagrin of certain political factions who seek to discredit the electoral system.
Supreme Court’s Verdict
The Supreme Court’s decision to reject the petitions, including those filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), was met with strong remarks questioning the motives of such organizations. Justice Dipankar Datta underscored the need to thwart attempts aimed at undermining the nation’s progress and achievements.
PM Modi’s Condemnation
PM Modi continued his critique of the opposition, emphasizing the significant blow dealt by the Supreme Court’s verdict to those with ulterior motives. He lauded the strength of democracy and Dr. Ambedkar’s constitution while denouncing the opposition’s alleged agenda of self-enrichment at the expense of the public.
BJP’s Vision vs. Opposition’s Agenda
Drawing a clear distinction between the BJP-led NDA and the opposition alliance, PM Modi reiterated the BJP’s commitment to empowering the people of India. He contrasted this with the purported agenda of the opposition, accusing them of seeking to exploit the populace for personal gain.
Congress Responds
In response to PM Modi’s remarks, Congress leader Pawar Khera raised questions about the BJP’s own stance on EVM reliability. Khera referenced a book authored by BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao questioning the trustworthiness of EVMs, highlighting contradictions within the BJP’s narrative on the issue.
Historical Reference
Khera pointed to the release of the book titled ‘Democracy At Risk! Can We Trust Our Electronic Voting Machines?’ authored by GVL Narasimha Rao and endorsed by BJP leader LK Advani during the tenure of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. This historical context adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing debate surrounding EVMs.
In light of these developments, the discourse surrounding electoral integrity and the role of EVMs continues to be a contentious issue in the political landscape of India.
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