Mumbai, April 23: During the first phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly elections, Congress candidate Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury reported issues with electronic voting machines (EVMs) at a polling booth in the Baharampur constituency. Voters have been forced to wait for hours in the sweltering heat due to repeated malfunctions of the EVMs.
Speaking to reporters outside a polling station, Chowdhury stated, “I have been receiving reports since morning that the EVM at booth number 141 is malfunctioning repeatedly. I filed a complaint, and the EVM was replaced, but the situation has not improved.”
According to the Congress leader, the Election Commission had assured him that technicians would be dispatched, but no effective measures have been taken so far. As a result, he felt compelled to come here and has also submitted a written complaint to the Chief Electoral Officer regarding the matter.
Additionally, Chowdhury mentioned that he has contacted the District Magistrate (DM), who assured him that they are attempting to resolve the issue.
Chowdhury highlighted the difficulties voters are facing due to the EVM malfunctions. He noted that people are enduring significant discomfort in the heat, with some opting to return home instead of waiting. Voters have been standing in long lines for hours. He particularly emphasized the struggles of female voters.
He remarked, “These women are standing in extreme heat, determined to vote. They fear that if they do not cast their vote this time, they may be denied their civil rights under the SIR. This fear is driving people to the polls.”
A female voter waiting in line echoed Chowdhury’s concerns. She shared, “We have been waiting for two hours in this intense heat. There is no arrangement here, nothing at all. We are repeatedly told that the machine (EVM) is malfunctioning. It is very frustrating. We are facing a lot of difficulties here. At this rate, we won’t be able to vote.”
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P.S.K.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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