Contentious Decision: Karnataka Debates Return to Ballot Papers

D K Suresh, a Congress leader, expressed concerns over Karnataka's decision to use ballot papers for local elections, diverging from the Congress government's recommendation due to concerns over electronic voting. Opposition accused the government of political insecurity. Karnataka Election Commission plans to use ballot papers in upcoming elections.

Karnataka Congress leader D K Suresh has raised concerns regarding the state's decision to revert to using ballot papers for local elections, which marks a shift from the previously utilized Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Suresh's comments reflect a split in the party, as he insists that the change is unnecessary.

Suresh, also the brother of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, suggested that any decision to step back from EVM use should rest with the party's high command. Last year, the Karnataka government advised the State Election Commission to consider ballot papers due to declining trust in electronic voting.

Opposition figures, like R. Ashoka, vehemently criticized the decision as a step backwards, arguing it stems from political fear rather than reform. Ashoka emphasized Bengaluru's status as a tech hub, questioning the logic of moving away from EVMs, which are trusted by the public according to government surveys.

(With inputs from agencies.)