In a firm rebuttal, the Election Commission of India (ECI) dismissed allegations by the Congress party claiming irregularities in Haryana’s Assembly polls, citing the lack of evidence and calling the claims “baseless.” The Congress party recently raised multiple complaints regarding the Haryana election results, alleging that certain Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) registered battery discrepancies and suggesting potential manipulation in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Congress’s claims arose as the BJP marked its third consecutive win in the state, a victory that the opposition party called “unexpected.”

Election Commission asserts flawless poll process

The Election Commission of India issued a statement on October 29, 2024, addressing Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, assuring that “each step in the electoral process was carried out flawlessly.” ECI representatives highlighted that each polling station and vote-counting step was monitored by Congress candidates or their agents, underlining the transparency of the operation. In its official letter, the ECI reaffirmed that the “entire process adhered strictly to the regulations,” countering Congress’s allegations that the vote count may have been manipulated through delayed or incomplete reporting.

Congress previously highlighted an issue with battery levels on the EVMs, arguing that those showing BJP leads displayed a full battery charge, while others favouring Congress exhibited lower levels. However, the ECI refuted these claims, explaining that EVMs display 99% battery until voltage reaches a specific threshold, after which the battery percentage drops. According to the commission, this feature is a standard technical specification designed to assist officials rather than influence results.

Election commission warns against unverified claims

In its statement, the ECI expressed concern over what it described as Congress’s “generic” grievances that lacked factual basis, adding that “baseless” claims during sensitive periods like polling and counting could “fuel a surcharged atmosphere.” The commission noted that such statements from major political players, especially when unverified, have the potential to damage the public’s trust in the election process. To emphasize the need for factual reporting, the ECI urged political parties to avoid circulating “frivolous” allegations that might undermine confidence in India’s democratic institutions.

Expert opinion on electoral integrity and EVMs

Experts in election law and digital voting technologies highlight the importance of confidence in the electoral system, with many suggesting that allegations without concrete proof risk detracting from democracy’s core values. Analysts noted that India’s EVMs have undergone multiple security audits and certifications and are “considered among the most secure in the world.” Concerns over EVM reliability, they argue, often resurface after unexpected election outcomes, which could point to a broader political strategy rather than genuine issues with the voting mechanism.

The ECI’s commitment to security has previously been upheld by the Supreme Court, which ruled in favour of the ECI’s use of EVMs, stating that no concrete evidence had been provided to warrant a ban on their use. With the election watchdog taking a firm stance against Congress’s recent allegations, experts believe that ongoing discourse over election security should focus on technological improvements rather than accusations without data.

Congress’s history with EVM concerns

The Congress party’s recent allegations are not the first to question EVM reliability. Similar concerns were raised during other state elections where outcomes contradicted the party’s expectations. In recent elections in Haryana, Congress flagged issues in 26 constituencies, claiming that EVMs displayed an unusually high battery level in BJP-dominant areas. Despite repeated clarifications by the ECI, Congress’s insistence on EVM tampering has fueled discussions around electoral transparency and reliability.

ECI upholds poll integrity, urges restraint on unverified claims

The ECI’s firm rebuttal of Congress’s claims highlights the importance of evidence-backed electoral grievances. By urging political leaders to avoid unfounded accusations, the ECI hopes to protect the integrity of India’s democratic processes. The commission remains steadfast in its assertion that every measure was taken to ensure fairness in the Haryana elections, underscoring the necessity for responsible political discourse to maintain public confidence in democratic governance.

  Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, Election Commission of India, EVM Reliability, Haryana assembly elections, Mallikarjun Kharge