Akhilesh Yadav Advocates for Ballot Voting, Critiques EVM Trustworthiness
Akhilesh Yadav, president of the Samajwadi Party and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has proposed a return to balloting for elections, criticizing the reliability of electronic voting machines (EVMs). This statement was made during a press conference with German MP Rahul Kumar Kamboj, who endorsed the transparency of paper ballots, and both expressed desires to strengthen ties between India and Germany through cultural and economic collaboration.
Akhilesh Yadav, the president of the Samajwadi Party and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has advocated for the restoration of ballot paper voting in elections, expressing distrust in electronic voting machines (EVMs). During a press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Lucknow, alongside Rahul Kumar Kamboj, a German MP of Indian origin, Yadav articulated that the current electoral system undermines public confidence. He referenced Germany’s reliance on paper ballots, arguing that EVMs are manipulated for vested political interests in India. Yadav stated, “No one trusts EVMs. Even the faces of those who win elections seem dejected as they too do not have faith in the system.”
In his remarks, Kamboj praised Germany’s voting process, emphasizing the transparency afforded by paper ballots, which allows for accurate recounting in case of discrepancies. He underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration between Indian and German communities, promoting cultural exchanges, and inviting people to participate in forthcoming cultural festivals in Germany. Kamboj remarked on his mission to bridge European opportunities with implementation in Uttar Pradesh, proposing that successful identification of these opportunities will generate significant progress.
Yadav expressed enthusiasm regarding Kamboj’s visit, expressing hope that it will deepen bonds between their regions for mutual benefit. He highlighted societal needs for education and skill development among youth, reiterating his dedication to create pathways for their employment and success. Reflecting on his official trip to Germany, Yadav recounted being inspired by the quality of German highways, emphasizing the ambition to replicate such infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh. He concluded by reiterating his commitment to establish linkages between the youth of India and Germany, aiming for shared opportunities in growth and development.
The discussion surrounding the reliability of electronic voting machines (EVMs) has prompted various political figures and parties in India to advocate for traditional voting methods, particularly ballot papers. Akhilesh Yadav’s call for ballot voting reflects a broader skepticism towards the management and integrity of elections conducted using EVMs, which many believe can be susceptible to manipulation. Yadav’s comments were made in context of a broader initiative to enhance cooperation with international stakeholders, particularly those of Indian origin residing in Germany, to facilitate cultural and economic exchanges. This approach aims to harness affordable and effective educational and job opportunities to empower the youth of Uttar Pradesh and enhance regional infrastructure.
In conclusion, Akhilesh Yadav’s push for ballot voting underscores growing concerns over the trustworthiness of electronic voting machines in India’s electoral process. His collaboration with German MP Rahul Kumar Kamboj highlights a commitment to building international ties that can foster educational and economic opportunities for the youth. As discussions around electoral reforms continue, the advocacy for paper ballots reflects a larger movement towards enhancing public confidence in the democratic process.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
