Ballot Paper Decision Based on Experience, Say CM Siddaramaiah and DCM Shivakumar
Bengaluru (Fikrokhabar News): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday defended the state government’s decision to conduct upcoming local body elections using ballot papers instead of electronic voting machines (EVMs). The move, they say, is rooted in past experience and global trends.
Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah explained, “We have made this decision based on our experience. Many countries have reverted to using ballot papers from EVMs. There is a reason behind this change, and we are clear about our purpose.”
‘Why is BJP Scared?’
DCM Shivakumar, taking a sharp dig at the opposition, questioned the BJP’s opposition to the decision. “The government has the power to conduct these elections. Why is BJP getting jittery?” he asked, asserting that the shift to paper ballots is entirely within the state’s jurisdiction.
Siddaramaiah added, “When the Deputy CM says we are using ballot papers, why should the BJP be afraid? We have every right to change the election method for local governance.”
Ballot System for GBA Elections?
When asked whether the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections would also be conducted using ballot papers, the Chief Minister clarified that the decision currently applies only to local body elections.
On Withdrawing Legal Cases
Responding to questions about withdrawal of cases against his supporters, DCM Shivakumar said the government has taken a balanced approach.
“We have also withdrawn cases filed against BJP workers. Even cases filed against the CM and me during the COVID-19 period by the previous government have been dropped. We have closed cases involving those who fought for Kannada language rights, farmers, and other state causes,” he said.
He also addressed criticism over the grand welcome he received following his release from jail, saying, “The Enforcement Directorate (ED) case that led to my arrest has now been quashed. No one said anything when that happened. There’s no further issue to discuss.”
Land Acquisition: 82% Farmers in Agreement
On the matter of farmer protests against land acquisition for the proposed Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township, Shivakumar said the government is in touch with the farming community.
“They are my people. I have the right to speak with them. I know which political parties some of them belong to,” he noted.
He stated that 82% of the farmers have given their consent for the acquisition, while only 18% are opposing. “We have offered very good compensation, and we’re addressing concerns through dialogue,” he added.
