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Bengaluru Citizens Push for EVMs in Upcoming GBA Elections for Transparency

A delegation from B.PAC and citizen groups met with the State Election Commission chief to advocate for using Electronic Voting Machines in the upcoming Greater Bengaluru Authority elections. They argued EVMs are essential for transparency, speed, and avoiding errors in the large-scale poll across 369 wards. The group emphasized that Bengaluru, as a tech hub, should not revert to an outdated ballot paper system. The Chief Commissioner received their memorandum and assured the matter would be seriously considered.

Key Points: Bengaluru Citizens Urge EVMs for GBA Ward Elections

  • Urge EVMs for 369 GBA wards
  • Highlight transparency and speed
  • Prevent manual errors and invalid votes
  • Leverage tech hub's modern image
2 min read

B.PAC, citizens urge state EC to conduct GBA elections using EVMs instead of ballot papers

B.PAC and citizens lobby state election body to use EVMs, not ballot papers, for Greater Bengaluru Authority polls, citing speed and transparency.

"It is crucial that elections in a metropolis like Bengaluru are conducted systematically and without errors. - Raghavendra Poojari HS"

Bengaluru, January 27

A delegation comprising members of Bangalore Political Action Committee and concerned citizens met with the Chief Commissioner of the State Election Commission, Sangreshi, on Tuesday.

According to a press release, the delegation submitted a formal memorandum urging that the upcoming elections for the 369 wards across 5 corporations under the newly formed Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) be conducted exclusively using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The memorandum highlighted the need for transparency and speed, while given the vast scale of elections spanning 369 wards, the use of EVMs is essential to avoid delays and confusion during the counting process. This will ensure greater transparency in the electoral proceedings.

The release further stated that aligning with the Tech Era: Bengaluru is a global technology hub. Reverting to the outdated ballot paper system is a regressive step. Modern technology must be leveraged to enhance voter confidence.

The use of EVMs can completely eliminate manual errors that occur during ballot paper counting and prevent the possibility of votes being declared invalid. Using EVMs enables swift declaration of results and significantly reduces the manpower and expenditure required for prolonged counting.

Speaking on the occasion, Raghavendra Poojari HS, Program Head of B.PAC, stated, "It is crucial that elections in a metropolis like Bengaluru are conducted systematically and without errors. In this regard, the State Election Commission should move away from the old ballot paper system and take necessary steps to conduct elections through EVMs only."

Sangreshi, Chief Commissioner of the State Election Commission, received the memorandum and assured the delegation that the matter would be considered seriously. The delegation included N Harish, B.PAC member and senior advocate, along with representatives from various city civic groups.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priyanka N
While EVMs are efficient, we must ensure they are 100% tamper-proof and there is complete transparency in the process. Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips should be mandatory for every vote cast. Trust in the system is paramount. 👍
N
Nikhil C
Ballot papers are a nightmare for counting, especially for 369 wards! Remember the long delays and confusion in past BBMP elections? EVMs will give us results by the next morning. It's a no-brainer for a city of this size.
S
Sarah B
I appreciate the initiative, but I have a respectful criticism. The focus should be on ensuring every citizen, including the elderly and those not tech-savvy, is comfortable using EVMs. Along with the machines, we need massive voter awareness campaigns.
K
Karthik V
Absolutely correct! Bengaluru should lead by example. Using ballot papers is a step backwards. Hope the State Election Commission acts on this and doesn't just give assurances. Our city's governance needs this modern upgrade.
M
Meera T
Good move by B.PAC. The cost and manpower saved by using EVMs is significant. That money can be better used for civic amenities. Let's make our local body elections as smooth and credible as the Lok Sabha polls. 🙏

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