Election Commission Addresses Congress’ Claims of Voter Turnout Discrepancies in Maharashtra Elections
New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) responded on Saturday to Congress’ allegations of “grave inconsistencies” in voter turnout data during the recently concluded Maharashtra assembly elections. The poll body reiterated its commitment to a transparent electoral process and invited a Congress delegation for further discussions on December 3, 2024.
The ECI emphasized that all stages of the election process, including voter roll updates and polling, are conducted with full transparency and involve the participation of candidates and their agents. The commission assured Congress that it would review all legitimate concerns raised by the party and provide a written response following the December 3 meeting.
Congress Raises Concerns Over Voter Data
Maharashtra Congress leaders Nana Patole, Mukul Wasnik, and Ramesh Chennithala had written to the ECI, highlighting an “inexplicable increase” in voter turnout between 5 PM and the final tally announced at 11:30 PM on polling day. The Congress also pointed to a significant addition of 47 lakh voters to the electoral roll between July and November 2024, calling for greater scrutiny of the process.
In response, the ECI clarified that discrepancies in voter turnout data were not present and that polling data at 5 PM differs from final figures due to procedural priorities. The commission explained that presiding officers are tasked with multiple statutory duties, including updating turnout data, which can cause delays.
Transparency Measures and Rebuttal of Allegations
The ECI cited enhanced transparency measures introduced during the 2024 General Elections, such as press notes issued at 11:45 PM to clarify voter turnout. It reaffirmed that all data is verifiable at the polling station level and accessible to candidates.
Additionally, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge voiced concerns over the reliability of electronic voting machines (EVMs), advocating for a return to ballot papers. “We don’t want EVMs; we want ballot papers,” he stated.
Election Results: BJP-Led Alliance Triumphs
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a sweeping victory in Maharashtra, clinching 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP won 132 seats, Shiv Sena bagged 57, and the NCP secured 41. Meanwhile, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) managed only 46 seats, with Congress contributing just 16 to the total.
The ECI’s reassurance of transparency and further review aims to address the concerns raised by Congress, as the debate over electoral integrity continues to dominate the political landscape.
