In a concerning turn of events, the CCTV cameras in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) strongroom for the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency reportedly went blank for about 45 minutes. Here’s what unfolded:
What Happened? During the third phase of polling on May 7, after voting concluded, the CCTV cameras in the EVM strongroom suddenly stopped functioning. All EVMs from across the constituency had been securely shifted to this strongroom, where they were to remain until the counting of votes scheduled for June 4. An alert NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) worker noticed the CCTV system malfunction and raised immediate concerns.
Supriya Sule’s Reaction: NCP (SP) Working President Supriya Sule, who is contesting the Baramati seat, reacted strongly to the incident. She labeled the CCTV blackout as “highly suspicious” and emphasized the critical importance of EVM security. Ms. Sule demanded urgent intervention from the Election Commission of India (ECI) to investigate the matter thoroughly and disclose the reasons behind the CCTV shutdown.
Opposition’s Concerns: The incident has prompted strong protests from the Opposition NCP (SP). CCTV cameras were reportedly turned off between 10:30 am and 11:15 am at the Food Corporation of India’s godown, where the EVMs are stored. Sunetra A. Pawar, another candidate in the Baramati seat race, has not yet responded to the accusations.
Conclusion: The blackout of CCTV cameras in the EVM strongroom has raised significant concerns about the transparency and integrity of the electoral process in the Baramati constituency. It is imperative that the Election Commission conducts a thorough investigation into this incident and provides clear explanations to ensure accountability and maintain public trust in the electoral system. Transparency and accountability are paramount in safeguarding the democratic principles of fair and free elections.
