Discrepancies in Vote Counting Spark Concerns Over Lok Sabha Election Integrity

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has revealed discrepancies in vote counts across 538 constituencies in the Lok Sabha elections, raising concerns about the integrity of the results. The Election Commission has yet to respond, exacerbating public suspicion. The ADR report underscores the mismatch between polled and counted votes.

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has raised serious concerns about discrepancies in vote counting across 538 constituencies in the Lok Sabha elections. According to an ADR analysis presented at a press conference, 5,54,598 fewer votes were counted than polled in 362 parliamentary constituencies, while 35,093 excess votes were counted in another 176 constituencies.

Amid these findings, the Election Commission's response remains awaited. Addressing the press conference, ADR founder Jagdeep Chokkar criticized the delay in the release of final voter turnout data and the lack of detailed constituency and polling station figures, which has heightened public suspicion about the election results' accuracy.

The ADR report pointed out that the Election Commission has not provided a reasonable explanation for declaring election results before publishing final, verified vote count data. Independent journalist Poonam Aggarwal also highlighted similar discrepancies during her analysis. The report underscores significant mismatches between the votes cast and counted, with six constituencies showing discrepancies larger than the winning margin.

(With inputs from agencies.)