Date: August 22, 2024
Fact Check: AP EC Denies VVPAT Tampering Allegations
The YSR Congress Party has been spreading claims of EVM tampering in Andhra Pradesh. Despite the lack of proof, YCP leaders continue to argue that EVM manipulation influenced the elections. Social media played a key role in amplifying these claims. One rumor suggested that the Andhra Pradesh Election Commission ordered VVPAT slips to be burned 20 days after the elections.
The Andhra Pradesh Election Commission quickly denied these rumors with a clear statement. They called the claims false and misleading.
Official EC Response
The Election Commission clarified that VVPAT slips from the 2024 elections were not destroyed. Following protocol, VVPAT rolls are removed 10 days after vote counting. However, this only happens if no request for EVM verification is made. The slips are then stored in sealed envelopes as required by the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. These are preserved for at least a year or longer if needed.
This definitive statement from the AP EC dispelled the rumors and reassured the public that the VVPAT slips were being handled in accordance with the law. The statement also made it clear that the VVPAT slips from the General Elections of 2024 had not been destroyed, putting an end to the controversy.
Ensuring Transparency
The Election Commission’s statement reassured the public that VVPAT slips remain secure. Their quick response not only debunked the rumors but also emphasized their commitment to transparency. This clarity helps maintain voter trust in the electoral process.
Conclusion
False claims about VVPAT destruction, spread by the YSR Congress, have been fully debunked. The Andhra Pradesh Election Commission acted swiftly to ensure that the public can trust the election process and that misinformation is corrected promptly.
The AP EC’s clarification comes as a timely reminder that spreading misinformation can have serious consequences, and it is the duty of everyone—political parties, media outlets, and the public alike—to verify the facts before believing and sharing false narratives.