JDS alleges defective EVMs in Arunachal Pradesh

Former CM Gegong Apang alleged that ruling BJP is misusing executive powers for political purpose.

Expressing concern over the reports of several election-related incidents occurred during the simultaneous parliamentary and assembly elections in the state, the Janta Dal (secular) today appealed the Election Commission of India to ensure 'proper, free and fair election'. The leaders alleged that the defective EVMs would adversely affect the final result.

Speaking to media persons here at press club, former Chief Minister of state and National General Secretary of Janta Dal (Secular) Gegong Apang said, numerous incidents have surfaced in the aftermaths of the simultaneous polls, like booth capturing, damaging of EVMs, assault on polling officers, road blockage by political party workers and EVM machine malfunctioning. "In many places, EVMs malfunctioned before the polling started. In Yingkiong-Tuting Assembly constituency, in one polling booth, EVM was replaced three-four times. We are highly apprehensive that it may not give a proper result," Apang said.

Alleging that the quality of EVMs has not improved at all, Apang said, "EVM will tell us, but in what correct away, it will tell us I don't know. We will have to go to court if necessary. The best way should have been the previous traditional ballot boxes and ballot papers." Demanding justification on defective EVMs from concerned authority, Apang said that ballot paper system is far better than the electronic process. He demanded ECI to re-introduce the ballot paper system instead of EVMs. Only India is using the EVM, none of the developed countries uses it, Apang said.

Flagging concern over the attacks on the on-duty polling officers and polling agents, Apang also slammed the election commission for failing to provide proper security during the election. He advised the commission to come up with full preparation during re-polling, and provide fully checked EVMs, and provide high security in all the polling stations. JDS MP Candidate Jarjum ete, appealed everyone to observe the election in a sincere way. She said the assault and manhandling of polling official is very unfortunate. Arunachal Pradesh is a young and growing state, the election process should be conducted in a civil way, she added.

Takum Kabak JDU candidate for 25 Raga assembly constituency alleged that the BJP misused its power and position and booth-captured many polling stations in various constituencies.