BJP moves Punjab Election Commission against use of ballot papers in local body polls

A high-level delegation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by the party’s Punjab state president Sunil Jakhar, met with the Punjab State Election Commissioner on Wednesday to formally protest the government’s decision to conduct upcoming local body elections using ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The delegation, which included senior leaders such as Ashwani Sharma, Vijay Sampla, and Som Prakash, demanded an immediate reversal of the decision to ensure a transparent electoral process.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Sunil Jakhar accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of conspiring with the State Election Commission to manipulate the election results. He alleged that the sudden shift from EVMs to ballot papers was a calculated move to “loot” the elections, similar to irregularities reportedly observed during the Panchayati Raj institution polls. Jakhar pointed out that local body elections have traditionally relied on EVMs and questioned the “overnight” change in protocol without consulting opposition parties.

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The BJP president further highlighted that the state government bypassed the established convention of holding all-party meetings before making significant electoral changes. He noted that even the former Local Bodies Minister had previously assured that EVMs would be utilised for voting. According to Jakhar, the AAP government’s decision stems from a fear of defeat, leading them to prefer a system where manipulation during the counting process is more feasible.

Raising concerns over broader electoral irregularities, the BJP delegation also alleged that ward delimitations were being handled improperly and that voter lists remained inaccessible to many citizens. Jakhar specifically referenced a viral audio clip from a previous election involving a police officer in Patiala as evidence of the ruling party’s alleged interference in democratic processes. The BJP has urged the Election Commissioner to adhere to Supreme Court guidelines and established rules by reinstating EVMs to maintain the neutrality and sanctity of the democratic exercise.