Bengaluru, March 23: The Karnataka government has ignited a political uproar by introducing a bill that proposes the use of ballot papers instead of electronic voting machines (EVMs) for local body elections.
The ‘Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2026,’ presented by Minister Priyank Kharge, suggests a return to ballot-based voting. This proposal is rooted in the declining public trust in EVMs and allegations of irregularities in recent elections.
Kharge argued that ballot papers would ensure greater transparency and accountability. He highlighted concerns regarding sudden spikes in votes and discrepancies in vote counting, questioning the Election Commission’s silence on these issues.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responded sharply to this move. Opposition leader R. Ashoka labeled the proposal a “Tughlaq decree.” He defended EVMs, describing them as reliable and thoroughly vetted, including scrutiny by the Supreme Court.
Several BJP leaders warned that reverting to ballot papers could reignite electoral fraud, potentially hindering Karnataka’s reputation as a technology hub.
As tensions escalated in the assembly, BJP members staged a walkout, branding the bill fraudulent and demanding its withdrawal.
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