Maharashtra Elections: Ensuring Integrity Amid Allegations

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde assures 'free and fair' Maharashtra local body elections, rejecting claims of election fraud. He addresses voting irregularities, underscores the importance of voter turnout, and criticizes opposition for alleged misleading allegations. BMC elections see slow start but vital democratic participation urged.

Amid allegations of voting irregularities, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reaffirmed the integrity of the local body elections, stressing the use of reliable indelible ink and denying any manipulation in voting processes. He dismissed claims by MNS chief Raj Thackeray regarding changes in the ink used for voting, asserting it remains unchanged for years.

Shinde emphasized the precautions taken by the Election Commission (EC) to prevent fraudulent voting, despite technical issues like the malfunction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Thane. He underscored the importance of maintaining accurate records and placing responsibility on party representatives to ensure voting integrity.

With 29 municipal corporations involved, Shinde highlighted the public's enthusiastic participation and encouraged voters to exercise their democratic right. In the wake of criticism from the opposition, he dismissed allegations as tactics to distract from expected electoral defeats. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections saw a modest voter turnout initially, with Shinde urging continued participation.

(With inputs from agencies.)