Did BJP get extra votes in Kasaragod mock poll; Election Commission explains

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Kaul stated that the allegation regarding a candidate receiving extra votes in the mock poll conducted as part of the electronic voting machine commissioning process in Kasaragod constituency is baseless.

Following the complaint, a report was requested from the District Collector of Kasaragod. The commissioning process involves setting up EVMs for elections, conducted by Assistant Engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) under the direct supervision of Returning Officers and is entirely webcasted with the presence of candidates or their appointed agents.

Confusion arose due to the release of additional VVPAT slips during the mock poll. Initially, these slips were not printed during the initial inspection but emerged during the mock poll, indicating 'not to be counted.' The Chief Electoral Officer assured that all voting machines used in the Lok Sabha elections in the state are safe and flawless.

Complaints were raised by the agents of LDF and UDF candidates regarding BJP allegedly receiving extra votes in the mock poll. They demanded the replacement of the machines where irregularities were observed.

The Supreme Court intervened in the matter after senior advocate Prashant Bhushan brought it to the court's attention during a hearing related to VVPAT enumeration. The court directed the Election Commission's lawyer to investigate the incident and explain procedures to prevent tampering with voting machines.

The Election Commission informed the court that the incident of BJP receiving extra votes was a technical glitch, promptly resolved. A detailed report on the matter will be issued soon, as stated by the Election Commission.