NewKerala.com

Key Points

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directly challenged the BJP's opposition to using ballot papers in upcoming local elections. He pointed out that many advanced democracies successfully use ballot paper systems without issue. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also questioned why the BJP was concerned about state government decisions regarding local elections. The government maintains that using ballot papers is within their authority for BBMP polls.

Key Points: Siddaramaiah Questions BJP Fear of Ballot Papers Local Elections

  • Siddaramaiah questions BJP's resistance to ballot paper system
  • Deputy CM Shivakumar defends state government's election authority
  • Ballot papers used successfully in advanced democracies worldwide
  • Government decision applies specifically to BBMP local body elections
2 min read

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah questions why BJP is 'afraid' of ballot papers for local body elections

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah challenges BJP's opposition to ballot papers in BBMP elections, asking why they fear a system used by advanced democracies worldwide.

"Why is the BJP afraid of ballot paper? Advanced countries have already implemented ballot paper; have those countries gone back to the Stone Age? - Siddaramaiah"

Koppala, September 6

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday addressed concerns over the use of ballot papers in upcoming BBMP local election, questioning the BJP's apprehensions.

"Why is the BJP afraid of ballot paper? Advanced countries have already implemented ballot paper; have those countries gone back to the Stone Age?" he remarked, advocating for the adoption of ballot papers in elections.

On Friday, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar questioned the BJP for expressing reservations about the use of ballot papers in local body elections.

Speaking to reporters at his Sadashivanagar residence, he said, "To use ballot papers in local body elections is the decision of the government of Karnataka. Why is the BJP worried about it? The state government is empowered to conduct local body elections. Why is the BJP getting jittery about this?"

Reacting to the use of ballot papers in the BBMP elections by the government, he said that the government has taken this decision for the local body elections.

Meanwhile, earlier Today, the Chief Minister attended the ceremonial event at the Almatti reservoir in Nidagundi taluk, Vijayapura district, organised by the Water Resources Department and Krishna Bhagya Jal Nigam Limited.

https://x.com/siddaramaiah/status/1964280171680452649

In a post on X, he stated, "Today, a Ganga Puja was performed to the Krishna River, followed by offering bags, and prayers were offered for the welfare of the people. Across the state, due to excellent rainfall, all reservoirs are filled to the brim. I hope that nature will continue to shower its bounty on all of us in the same way."

On the issue of replacing gates at the Tungabhadra reservoir, the Chief Minister stated, "The gates will be installed after the rain stops. We will change them as soon as the rainy season ends. The reservoir is old so that the change will be made."

The repair of the Tungabhadra reservoir is ongoing, as a few weeks ago, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar announced that the Tungabhadra Dam Board had issued a tender to an Ahmedabad-based company for the manufacture of 33 new crest gates.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Actually, both sides have valid points. While ballot papers are traditional, EVMs reduce counting time and errors. Maybe a hybrid system would be better? Let's not make everything political.
V
Vikram M
Siddaramaiah is absolutely right! Many developed countries still use paper ballots. Why is BJP opposing something that ensures transparency? They should explain their fears properly.
A
Ananya R
Meanwhile, glad to hear about the reservoirs being full! Water security is more important than political fights. Hope the Tungabhadra repairs are done properly. 💧
M
Michael C
As someone who has observed Indian elections, I must say the debate around voting methods is healthy for democracy. Every system has pros and cons - the key is finding what works best for India's unique context.
S
Shreya B
Whatever method is used, the most important thing is that people have faith in the electoral process. Both parties should work together to ensure free and fair elections instead of blaming each other.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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