Independent Candidate Files Police Complaint Over EVM Manipulation Demand
In a shocking development ahead of the Chandwad Municipal Council elections, independent presidential candidate Raakesh Ahire has filed a formal police complaint alleging that an individual demanded Rs 1 crore to manipulate Electronic Voting Machines in his favor.
The Alleged Extortion Attempt
The controversy unfolded when Ahire received a phone call on Wednesday from the accused, who claimed to have connections with someone capable of tampering with EVMs. According to the complaint filed at Chandwad police station on Saturday, the caller allegedly boasted about having already arranged 13,642 votes for another candidate through similar manipulation.
"The accused then specifically asked me to pay Rs 1 crore to ensure I would receive exactly 11,250 votes through EVM setting manipulation," Ahire stated in his complaint. The independent candidate, who is contesting for the presidential post in the December 2 council elections, acted promptly by documenting the incident.
Official Response and Investigation
Ahire first brought the matter to the attention of Returning Officer Tahsidlar Milind Kulkarni through a written complaint on Thursday. Following this formal notification, he proceeded to file a police complaint on Saturday, providing what he described as "all the evidence" to support his claims.
Returning Officer Kulkarni confirmed that the complaint had been forwarded to police for investigation and that a notice had been issued to the accused. In a surprising twist, the accused responded in writing, claiming that the conversation was merely "a casual talk between good friends" and nothing more substantial. He explicitly denied knowing anyone capable of EVM manipulations.
Chandwad Police Inspector Kailas Wagh verified that a formal case has been registered under section 173 (bribery) and 175 (false statement in connection with election) of relevant statutes. "Investigations are currently underway," Inspector Wagh stated, confirming the seriousness with which authorities are treating the allegations.
Election Integrity Concerns
The timing of this complaint adds tension to the already charged atmosphere surrounding the Chandwad Municipal Council elections scheduled for December 2. Ahire participated in the mock polls for candidates held in Chandwad on Friday, demonstrating his continued engagement in the electoral process despite the alleged extortion attempt.
This incident raises significant concerns about election integrity and the potential vulnerability of electronic voting systems to manipulation attempts. The case highlights the challenges faced by independent candidates in navigating complex electoral landscapes where financial demands and technical manipulation threats can undermine democratic processes.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on Chandwad to see how this alleged election manipulation case unfolds and what impact it might have on the upcoming municipal council elections and public confidence in the electoral system.
