Karnataka Government Recommends Scrapping EVMs for Local Body Polls, Advocates Ballot Papers

Following concerns over EVM trustworthiness, Karnataka Cabinet proposes reverting to paper ballots in local elections.
The Karnataka government has recommended phasing out electronic voting machines (EVMs) for upcoming local body elections and returning to the traditional use of ballot papers. The Cabinet’s decision comes amid growing concerns about the reliability and trustworthiness of EVMs, which have faced criticism and skepticism from various political groups and the public.
State Minister HK Patil stated, “EVMs are losing trustworthiness. In this backdrop, the Cabinet has decided to recommend doing away with EVMs for local body polls.” The move aims to restore voter confidence in the electoral process during local-level elections.
Though the recommendation requires approval from the Election Commission of India, it marks a significant shift in Karnataka’s approach to conducting elections, prioritizing transparency and voter trust.
Source: Deccan Herald