Bengaluru, (UNI) Randeep Singh Surjewala, AICC General Secretary and Karnataka Congress In-charge, has warmly welcomed the Karnataka government’s decision to conduct urban and rural local body elections using ballot papers instead of electronic voting machines (EVMs).
He described the move as a bold initiative aimed at restoring voter confidence and reinforcing democratic principles.
“This decision strengthens our democratic aspirations and restores voters’ confidence. For years, doubts and technical glitches associated with EVMs have fuelled uncertainty. Ballot papers ensure transparency and trust in the electoral process,” Surjewala said.
He noted that Congress leaders, including Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, have long advocated for a return to ballot papers to safeguard voters’ rights and ensure impartial counting. The Karnataka government’s move, he added, is exemplary for other states and could serve as a model for future elections at larger levels.
Surjewala also praised the government’s decision to prepare separate voter lists for local body elections under the State Election Commission.
Traditionally, voter lists prepared by the Election Commission of India were used for such polls, often leading to discrepancies.
“By preparing local-specific voter lists, accuracy and transparency are significantly enhanced. Names can be updated or corrected at the state level, ensuring smooth elections and preventing errors that compromise democratic integrity,” he said.
He emphasized that these steps—reviving ballot papers and creating dedicated voter lists—represent a significant stride in strengthening democracy and enhancing public trust in the electoral process.
Surjewala concluded by congratulating the Karnataka government for this pro-democracy stance, calling it a model for other states and a step towards more transparent and reliable elections across India.
