The Karnataka State Election Commission’s (SEC) decision to conduct the upcoming Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections using paper ballots instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) has ignited a fierce political firestorm. While the move aligns with the ruling Congress’s official stance, internal disagreements and sharp rebukes from the opposition have turned the "Battle for Bengaluru" into a high-stakes ideological clash.
Internal Disquiet: D.K. Suresh Breaks Ranks
In a surprising turn of events, senior Congress leader and former MP D.K. Suresh has voiced concerns that contradict his party’s push for ballots.
"I feel there is no need to bring back ballot papers. We have already moved a step forward with technology. Local body elections fall under the state government's jurisdiction, and the process cannot be easily tampered with," Suresh stated, suggesting that the shift might be unnecessary in the current era.
His comments stand in stark contrast to Minister H.K. Patil, who recently reiterated the party's "deep-seated suspicion" regarding the vulnerability of EVMs.
The Opposition Offensive: "Political Bankruptcy"?
The BJP has launched a scathing attack on the Siddaramaiah-led government, labeling the move as a "regressive step."
R. Ashoka (Leader of Opposition): Speaking from Delhi, Ashoka mocked the decision, stating that the Congress is "fearing a certain defeat" and is insulting the intelligence of Bengaluru's tech-savvy voters. "Whether they use ballots or EVMs, the people have already decided to vote for the BJP-JD(S) alliance," he added.
C.T. Ravi & D.V. Sadananda Gowda: Former CM Sadananda Gowda alleged that the switch is merely a tactic to "please Rahul Gandhi" and satisfy the party's national narrative on "vote theft." Meanwhile, C.T. Ravi questioned why a global tech hub like Bengaluru is being dragged back to the "Stone Age." OnePlus Buds 4 TWS Earbuds with Upto 55dB Real-time ANC, Adaptive Mode, Dual Drivers and DACs, 3D Audio, Upto 45hrs Music Playback, Dual-Device connectivity, 47ms Low Latency, Storm Gray
CM Siddaramaiah Defends the Decision
Defending the SEC's move, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated in Belagavi that local elections should prioritize the "trust of the common voter" over technological speed.
"Developed countries like the USA still use ballot papers. Why is the BJP so afraid of a transparent paper trial? Our goal is to ensure that not a single true voter is cheated by technical glitches or manipulation," the CM argued.
Cabinet Backing and Legal Grounds
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and other cabinet members have supported the SEC, noting that the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, explicitly provides the option to use either EVMs or ballot papers. They argue that using paper ballots for local bodies (Gram Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies) has been a long-standing practice and should not be viewed as a technical hurdle. Also Read: Beyond MGNREGA: NDA Government Launches ‘VB-G RAM G’ to Revolutionize Rural Development and Job Security