The State Election Commission (SEC) has ordered that elections to the local bodies of Gurdaspur, Qadian, Dinanagar, and Sham Chaurasi will be conducted using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). This decision has been welcomed by the Opposition parties, who believe it will ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
Earlier, elections to eight municipal corporations and other civic bodies were held on May 26 using ballot papers, with votes counted three days later. However, these four civic bodies did not go to the polls due to orders from the SEC.
The Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had earlier raised serious allegations of booth capturing at several locations after the manual counting of votes. The Opposition leaders have now stated that with the introduction of EVMs and the entire polling process being videographed, no party will be able to indulge in foul play.
A senior Opposition leader remarked, "This development means it will be a level playing field for all parties and Independents." The move is expected to enhance transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
The SEC's decision comes amid concerns over the integrity of manual voting and counting methods. By deploying EVMs and video recording, the commission aims to address these issues and restore confidence among political parties and voters alike.
