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CEC Rejects Congress EVM Tampering Claims
CEC Addresses EVM Tampering Allegations
New Delhi: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar recently dismissed claims made by Congress leaders about EVM tampering claims during the Haryana assembly elections. The Congress had raised concerns over electronic voting machines (EVMs), particularly in seats where differences in battery strength allegedly led to varying results.
Details of Congress’ Allegations
Congress leaders, including party general secretary Jairam Ramesh, claimed that certain EVMs with higher battery levels (around 99%) had resulted in BJP victories, while those with battery levels between 60-70% saw Congress wins. “Have you understood this conspiracy? Where there was 99 per cent battery in EVMs, the BJP won. Where there was less than 70 per cent battery, the Congress won. If this is not a conspiracy, then what is it?” Ramesh questioned during a press conference. The Congress called for an investigation into these EVM tampering claims.
CEC Rajiv Kumar’s Response
In response to these allegations, CEC Rajiv Kumar clarified that the claims of tampering due to battery strength are unfounded and misleading. He explained that this was a new issue, different from the usual hacking allegations that had been raised in the past. “Now we are thinking what next will come, we can’t fathom. But certainly something new will come up,” said Kumar, dismissing the Congress’ EVM tampering claims.
Process of EVM Commissioning and Battery Installation
The CEC elaborated on the commissioning process of EVMs, emphasizing transparency and oversight. He mentioned that about six days before the election, EVMs are commissioned, candidates’ election symbols are loaded, and new batteries are installed. The process is carried out in the presence of candidates or their authorized agents, who sign off on the installations. “Leave alone EVM, even batteries (installed) have signatures of candidates. Even we were not aware (of this rule) as it was framed long back. Now it is helping us,” Kumar remarked.
Battery Strength and EVM Functionality
Addressing the concerns about battery strength and its impact on EVM performance, CEC Kumar explained that the batteries used in EVM control units are installed fresh during commissioning. The batteries provide an initial voltage between 7.5 and 8 volts, and when the voltage is above 7.4 volts, the battery capacity shows as 99%. As the EVM is used, the voltage and displayed battery percentage decrease gradually. Once the voltage falls below 7.4 volts, the battery capacity reads between 98% and 10%.
Functionality of EVMs with Low Battery Levels
The control unit of an EVM remains operational as long as the battery voltage is above 5.8 volts. The battery replacement warning only appears when the battery level drops below 10%. According to EC officials, this process is similar to a vehicle’s fuel indicator showing a low fuel warning. The remaining battery capacity on counting day depends on various factors such as the mock poll conducted, actual polling, and the initial battery voltage.
Addressing the Congress’ Claims
Rajiv Kumar also highlighted that the comparison between EVMs and devices like pagers, which are network-connected, is irrelevant. “Pagers are connected (to network), EVMs are not,” he explained, countering claims that EVMs could be hacked or tampered with like other electronic devices. This, he asserted, ensures that EVMs remain secure from remote tampering, further dismissing the EVM tampering claims made by the Congress.
Complaints and the EC’s Assurance
During the recent Haryana assembly polls, the Election Commission (EC) received around 20 complaints related to EVMs. The CEC assured that a detailed response would be provided for each complaint, and the findings would be made public. Additionally, Kumar mentioned that the EC is working on a comprehensive set of FAQs to address concerns from various stakeholders, aiming to maintain transparency and trust in the electoral process.
Conclusion: Upholding the Integrity of EVMs
The CEC’s rejection of the EVM tampering claims put forward by Congress underlines the Election Commission’s commitment to ensuring free and fair elections. By detailing the process of EVM commissioning and battery management, the EC aims to dispel doubts about the reliability of the machines. As the debate around EVMs continues, the EC’s efforts to provide clear answers and maintain transparency are crucial in fostering public trust in the democratic process.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is based on official statements and reports regarding the alleged EVM tampering claims during Haryana assembly elections. The article aims to present the facts as shared by the Election Commission and is not intended to influence political opinions or judgments.
