Pranab Mukherjee expresses concern over reports of EVM tampering

In the midst of allegations and counter-allegations over the controversy surrounding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), former president Pranab Mukherjee, in a statement, has expressed concerns over reports of EVMs being tampered with. He also has emphasised that it is the responsibility of the poll panel to end all speculations about the possible misuse of the voting machines.

The statement issued by the former president said, “People’s mandate is sacrosanct.” “Onus of ensuring institutional integrity lies with the EC,” the statement added. Safety of EVMs is the responsibility of the poll panel.

This comes in the backdrop of opposition parties accusing the poll panel of taking sides with the ruling party, in violation of rules and regulations. The opposition also is on record demanding that 50 per cent of the VVPATs be matched with the EVMs. The demand has assumed greater urgency and immediacy, despite the apex court dismissing the plea, in the light of photos and videos showing EVMs being transported without security going viral in the social media.