Election Commission is strict on the news of EVM tampering, gave strict warning before Tamil Nadu and Bengal elections

Knews Desk-The Election Commission (EC) has taken a strict stance on the news of alleged tampering with Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) before the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The Commission has clearly stated that any kind of tampering with EVM, attempt to influence it or using it in a strange manner will be considered a serious electoral offense and strict legal action will be taken against it.

In fact, it is being claimed on social media and in some political circles that some people are trying to find out which candidate has received the vote by applying fragrance, ink or other substances on the EVM button. These claims have raised questions about the transparency of the election process. In view of this, the Election Commission has responded immediately. Election Commission officials made it clear that any tampering with the EVM will be considered as ‘tampering’ i.e. interference in the electoral process. He said that if such activity is noticed at any polling station, the concerned presiding officer will have to immediately inform the Sector Officer or Returning Officer.

Applying any kind of color on the ballot unit of EVM is completely prohibited.

A senior official said that the fairness of the election process will not be compromised at any cost. He also warned that not only legal action will be taken in such cases, but if necessary, re-polling can also be ordered at the concerned booth. The officials also clarified that in order to maintain the secrecy of the vote, applying any kind of colour, ink, perfume or chemical substance on the ballot unit of the EVM is strictly prohibited. Doing so is not only a violation of the rules, but it is also classified as an electoral crime.

Instructions were given to polling personnel and security officials

The Election Commission has instructed all polling personnel and security officials to keep a close watch on any such suspicious activity. If negligence of any officer comes to light, action will be taken against him also. While in Tamil Nadu, voting for all 234 seats will be held in a single phase on April 23, in West Bengal, voting for 294 seats will be held in two phases. In West Bengal, the first phase is scheduled for April 23 and the second phase for April 29. Counting of votes in both the states will take place on May 4. The Election Commission has said that keeping the voting process fair, transparent and secure is its top priority. For this, surveillance has been increased at every level and extra vigilance is being maintained at all polling booths.

The Commission has also appealed to political parties and common voters not to pay attention to any kind of rumors and rely only on official information. It has also been said that any activity that hinders the election process will be taken seriously. After this whole matter, the political atmosphere has also become a bit heated, but the Election Commission has clearly indicated that violation of the rules will not be tolerated at any level.