Tue Nov 26 08:13:57 UTC 2024: ## Himachal CM Calls for Ballot Papers to Replace EVMs After Congress’ Maharashtra Setback
**Shimla, [Date]** – Following the Congress party’s significant defeat in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has advocated for a return to ballot papers in Indian elections. He expressed concerns about the vulnerability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to hacking, stating that technology, regardless of its sophistication, can be compromised.
Sukhu’s call comes after the Congress secured only 16 seats in Maharashtra. He argued that to alleviate doubts surrounding EVM integrity, a one-time shift to ballot papers would restore faith in the electoral process. He cited Elon Musk’s acknowledgement of technology’s inherent hackability to support his claim. The CM emphasized the need to uphold the fundamental principles of fairness and transparency in democratic elections.
However, this stance differs from that of Himachal Pradesh Congress President Pratibha Singh, who expressed skepticism about the feasibility of implementing such a change. She noted that the decision rests solely with the Election Commission of India and the government, not individual party members. She highlighted the complexity of the issue, emphasizing that simply demanding a switch to ballot papers is insufficient and requires a formal complaint to the Election Commission for consideration.
First Piper 