Archive · 6 Sep 2025
Karnataka to Use Ballot Papers for Local Body Polls
The government in Karnataka, India, is switching from electronic voting machines (EVMs) to paper ballots for local elections.
This decision has sparked debate.
The government says it wants to restore trust in the voting process, influenced by national discussions about EVM reliability.
The opposition, mainly the BJP, is critical, suggesting the move could lead to fraud and reject technology.
The local election officials have signaled support for the change.
It's a move that could have significant consequences for how elections are perceived and conducted in the state.
The switch has the potential to change voter outcomes or fuel further controversy.
The Karnataka government plans to use ballot papers instead of EVMs for local body elections.
This decision follows a cabinet meeting led by the Congress government.
The move has raised questions and concerns, particularly from the opposition.
The State Election Commissioner supports the government's decision.
The shift aims to address public confidence and perceived issues with EVMs.
- Who
- Karnataka Congress government
- What
- Decided to replace EVMs with ballot papers for local body elections
- When
- Recently
- Where
- Karnataka
- Why
- To address perceived erosion of credibility in EVMs and potentially gain political advantage
Congress
BJP
Reasons for Change
Congress
The change is meant to address the 'erosion of credibility and public confidence in EVMs'.
BJP
The change is seen as an attempt to enable 'booth violence and fraudulent voting' and an insult to technology.
Motives
Congress
The move aligns with the national campaign that questions EVMs.
BJP
Congress wants to manipulate elections for their benefit.
- Government
- Karnataka Congress government
- Decision
- Replace EVMs with ballot papers
- Elections Affected
- Local body elections
- Political Parties Involved
- Congress, BJP, JD(S)
- Official's Stance
- State Election Commissioner welcomes the decision