BJP Responds to Oppositions Demands on EVMs and SIR, Claims Political Motivations Behind Criticism
BJP spokesperson R.P. Singh defends EVMs and criticizes oppositions call for ballot papers, asserting its a tactic born from political frustration.
New Delhi, October 27 (Daily Kiran) : BJP spokesperson R.P. Singh addressed the opposition’s calls for the return of ballot papers and the use of the SIR system during elections, characterizing their demands as an attempt at “loot politics.” He reminded the public of past instances when elections were allegedly manipulated with ballot papers.
Singh questioned the opposition’s claims regarding the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), asking if they would have won elections in Karnataka, Telangana, and Kerala if there were issues with the machines. He recalled that during previous parliamentary elections, EVMs were used, which were introduced by Rajiv Gandhi. He suggested that the opposition’s current grievances stem from their electoral losses.
On the topic of the SIR system, Singh pointed out that some opposition leaders have praised it in Punjab, including Kerala’s Home Minister Ramesh, who acknowledged its effectiveness. He noted that when votes were cut in a recent election, the opposition leader had also praised the outcome. Singh dismissed their criticisms as mere attempts to alleviate their frustration over electoral defeats.
Addressing comments made by Congress President Rahul Gandhi about Prime Minister Modi and his father, Singh criticized the use of personal attacks, emphasizing that Modi’s parents had no involvement in politics. He condemned the opposition for frequently resorting to derogatory remarks about the Prime Minister.
In response to D. Raja’s statements, Singh remarked that the opposition should focus on substantive issues rather than slogans. He highlighted the government’s achievements, such as lifting 25 crore people above the poverty line and providing electricity to every household. Singh urged the opposition to discuss policies instead of resorting to empty rhetoric.
Regarding Rahul Gandhi’s acquittal in a defamation case, Singh expressed hope that the opposition would respond similarly in future rulings. He noted the double standards in their reactions depending on whether outcomes favor them or not.
On the ongoing protests in Delhi, Singh pointed out significant economic losses for traders, estimated at around ₹3,000 crore. He criticized the timing of the opposition’s rally, suggesting it was an attempt to remind the Sikh community of past atrocities, specifically the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
Singh also questioned the law and order situation in Punjab, stating that the state government has failed to maintain stability, allowing gangsters and drug traffickers to dominate. He expressed concern for police safety, noting that even officers feel unsafe in their own communities.
Looking ahead to the “Vote Save, Country Save” rally on November 1, Singh accused the opposition of attempting to provoke memories of the 1984 riots, which he described as pouring salt on the wounds of the Sikh community.
