Akhilesh Yadav Advocates for Ballot Voting Amidst EVM Distrust

Akhilesh Yadav, president of the Samajwadi Party, urged the Indian government to revert to ballot voting, citing distrust in electronic voting machines (EVMs). Yadav criticized the current system, emphasizing the need for reliable elections. Alongside German MP Rahul Kumar Kamboj, he discussed international cooperation aimed at creating opportunities for the youth in Uttar Pradesh and strengthening cultural ties.

In a recent press conference held at the Samajwadi Party headquarters in Lucknow, Akhilesh Yadav, the party president, advocated for a return to ballot voting, expressing deep concerns regarding the reliability of electronic voting machines (EVMs). He referenced Germany’s successful implementation of a ballot system, stating, “Even a country like Germany conducts elections using ballot papers. But in India, elections are conducted with EVMs to serve vested interests.” Yadav emphasized that widespread distrust in EVMs undermines the electoral process, noting that even victorious candidates appear disillusioned by the system.

During the same conference, Indian-origin German MP Rahul Kumar Kamboj reinforced Yadav’s sentiment by providing an overview of the advantages of using ballot papers, emphasizing the transparency of the recount process. Kamboj articulated his goal of fostering a partnership between India and Germany, facilitating cultural exchanges, and promoting mutual economic opportunities in places like Uttar Pradesh.

Yadav expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the potential for enriching the youth’s educational and professional prospects through strengthened international ties. He shared personal experiences from his visit to Germany that inspired infrastructure improvements in his home state. Yadav remains committed to enhancing opportunities for India’s younger generation while advocating for a more trustworthy voting system in the country’s electoral process.

The current debate surrounding the use of electronic voting machines in India is fueled by concerns about their integrity and transparency. Critics, including political leaders such as Akhilesh Yadav, argue that these machines can be manipulated to benefit specific interests, undermining public confidence in electoral outcomes. In contrast, countries like Germany continue to utilize ballot papers, which many believe offer a more reliable and transparent voting process. The discussion is set against a backdrop of increasing calls for electoral reform in India, reflecting broader demands for greater accountability and trust in democratic processes.

The push for ballot paper voting by Akhilesh Yadav highlights critical concerns regarding the trustworthiness of EVMs in India’s electoral system. As he advocates for a more transparent voting process akin to that in Germany, both Yadav and Kamboj emphasize the importance of fostering international collaborations that could enhance opportunities for India’s youth. This press conference reflects a significant step towards addressing electoral reforms, aimed at restoring faith in the democratic process in India.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com