May 10th 2024.
A group of opposition party leaders met with top officials from the Election Commission on Friday to express their concerns about the delayed release of voter turnout figures for the first two phases of the elections. The delegation, led by Samajwadi Party leader Javed Ali, also discussed complaints of model code violations by members of the ruling BJP party.
During the meeting, Congress leaders Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Salman Khurshid, TMC's Derek O'Brien, DMK's TR Baalu, JMM's Mahua Majhi, CPI's Binoy Viswam, and Ali raised several issues, including the issuance of "red cards" by the Uttar Pradesh Police to individuals in the state, which has allegedly prevented many from casting their votes.
Singhvi, who spoke to the media after the meeting, stated that the main issue discussed was the lack of action taken by the Election Commission on 11 complaints filed against the Prime Minister and Home Minister by the Congress party and other parties. He also pointed out that the Election Commission had sent notices to party presidents, which is unprecedented. Singhvi expressed his disappointment with the delay in taking action and stated that it was the duty of the Election Commission to maintain a level playing field and protect the democratic process.
The opposition party leaders also raised concerns about the delay in the release of voter turnout percentages. Singhvi mentioned that the difference in percentage increase this year compared to 2019 was significant and requested that the Election Commission publish the figures promptly to avoid any discrepancies. However, the Election Commission had previously stated that the candidates receive the booth-wise data immediately after the voting ends.
Ali also brought up the issue of the "red cards" being issued by the Uttar Pradesh Police, which ban individuals from going near polling booths. He stated that the EC has assured them that such cards will not be issued in the future as they are unconstitutional.
The meeting was called after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to leaders of various opposition parties, expressing his concerns about discrepancies in the voting data released by the Election Commission. In response, the Election Commission rejected Kharge's allegations and stated that his comments could negatively impact voter participation.
In conclusion, the opposition party leaders urged the Election Commission to take prompt action on the complaints and ensure transparency in the electoral process to avoid any doubts or questions. They also hinted at the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court if the Election Commission fails to fulfill its duties.
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