Bengaluru (Sep 19): The state cabinet has decided that there is no need to issue an ordinance to use ballot papers instead of EVMs in local body elections, sources revealed. As per the cabinet decision on September 4, a recommendation was sent to the State Election Commission on Saturday to use ballot papers instead of EVMs for elections to the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), panchayats, and urban local bodies. To facilitate this, the government had considered amending three laws: the Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, the Greater Bengaluru Authority Act-2024, and the Karnataka Municipalities Act.

However, according to a Supreme Court ruling, the decision to conduct local body elections using either ballot papers or EVMs is left to the state government’s discretion. Therefore, the Election Commission must act as per the state government’s recommendation.For this reason, the cabinet concluded that an ordinance is unnecessary. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Minister H.K. Patil stated that the consensus was that no ordinance is required. However, he added that a final decision would be made after further discussions with legal experts. JM LOOKS Fancy Pointed Toe Sandals: Stylish Stiletto Heels with Ankle Strap, Comfortable for Women & Girls

The cabinet meeting scheduled for September 11 will address amendments to the three laws to enable the use of ballot papers in local body elections and consider issuing an ordinance.As per the September 4 decision, a recommendation to use ballot papers for GBA, panchayat, and urban local body elections has already been sent to the Election Commission. Karnataka CEO's Response to Rahul Gandhi's 'Vote Chori' Allegations: A Timeline and Analysis

Sources indicate that a final decision on these amendments will be taken at the September 11 meeting. Some have questioned the need to revisit this issue, as the law already permits the use of ballot papers in local body elections. It has been stated that ward delimitation will be completed first, followed by appropriate instructions to the Election Commission.