BJD Challenges Election Commission Over Odisha Poll Discrepancies

BJD leader Amar Patnaik criticizes the Election Commission's handling of 2024 Odisha poll discrepancies, threatening street protests. Patnaik points to inflated voter turnout and lack of Form 17C data as major issues. Calls for process audits and VVPAT-EVM matching persist as legal remedies seem insufficient.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Amar Patnaik has launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission (EC), accusing it of serious discrepancies in last year's Odisha election vote counting.Following a recent meeting with EC officials, Patnaik warned that the BJD is ready to hit the streets if its concerns remain ignored.

The party demands clarity on voter turnout spikes and the absence of Form 17C data, records critical for validating booth-wise voting. The BJD has signalled its readiness to escalate the matter to the Odisha High Court, frustrated by the EC's 'my way or the highway' attitude and poor dialogue.

Patnaik underscored the need for process audits and 100% VVPAT-EVM matching, urging transparency. He cautioned against hasty electoral roll revisions that could disenfranchise voters. The BJD vows legal and public protests unless the Commission provides satisfactory explanations.

(With inputs from agencies.)