Despite numerous clarifications from the Election Commission that EVMs cannot be connected wirelessly and are standalone devices, why do allegations continue to arise repeatedly?
Once again, in the aftermath of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Mumbai North West constituency, Ravindra Dattaram Waikar’s victory under Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena stirred considerable controversy. Allegations surfaced regarding an incident during vote counting involving a relative and a mobile phone purportedly linked to an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Ravindra Dattaram Waikar emerged victorious as a candidate for Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena from the Mumbai North West constituency, clinching the seat with a narrow margin of 48 votes.
Allegations and Political Fallout
Recently, a contentious issue arose concerning an incident during the vote count on June 4, as reported by the Mid-Day newspaper. Allegedly, a relative of Ravindra Waikar was observed using a mobile phone that was purportedly connected to an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) at the counting center. This incident sparked a heated debate among political opponents, with the Congress party raising doubts about the reliability of EVMs.
Reactions from Political Leaders
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responded promptly to these allegations, vehemently criticizing opposition leaders for what they deemed as spreading misinformation. They urged the Election Commission of India to initiate legal proceedings against those held accountable for perpetuating these accusations, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in electoral discourse.
Technological Clarification and Legal Response on EVM
Vandana Suryavanshi, serving as the returning officer for Mumbai North West, emphatically refuted the accuracy of the Mid-Day report, asserting its falsehood. In her statement, she reiterated that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are autonomous systems devoid of programmable attributes or wireless functionalities. This clarification aimed to dispel any doubts regarding the integrity and security of the electoral process under her jurisdiction.
Furthermore, in response to the damaging allegations, a defamation notice has been formally served to the newspaper responsible for publishing the contentious report. This legal action underscores the Election Commission’s commitment to safeguarding the reputation of the electoral system against unfounded claims. By addressing these issues promptly and decisively, Vandana Suryavanshi and her team aim to maintain public trust and confidence in the electoral process, reinforcing the reliability of EVMs as crucial instruments of democratic voting.
Background and Political Career of Waikar
Ravindra Waikar, formerly a close associate of Uddhav Thackeray, made a pivotal move to join Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena. His political journey is marked by distinction, having represented Jogeshwari East as a three-time MLA and wielded influential roles within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). His strategic shifts within Maharashtra’s political landscape underscore his adaptability and influence in regional governance.
Ministerial Roles and Responsibilities
His political journey has been marked by significant roles as a minister in governments formed by both the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance and the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA), showcasing his deep influence and extensive experience in shaping Maharashtra’s political landscape. His tenure in these diverse administrations underscores his adaptability and strategic acumen in navigating the complexities of state governance and coalition dynamics.
Educational and Financial Standing
Educationally, Ravindra Waikar holds a graduate degree and declares his primary occupation as a businessman, supplemented by his government salary and allowances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the allegations surrounding Ravindra Waikar and the EVM incident underscore the importance of upholding electoral integrity. Despite repeated clarifications from the Election Commission affirming the security of EVMs, baseless accusations persist. The BJP’s swift rebuttal highlights their commitment to factual accuracy and governance transparency. By demanding accountability from those spreading misinformation, the BJP reinforces its stance on maintaining trust in democratic processes. As the political landscape evolves, it is imperative to prioritize evidence-based discourse and safeguard the credibility of electoral mechanisms for the benefit of democratic values and public confidence.