Date: October 09, 2024
Jagan Continues EVM Allegations After Election Defeat
Jagan Shifts Blame to EVMs Post-Election Loss
In one of the most one-sided elections in Andhra Pradesh’s recent history, the NDA claimed victory by winning 164 MLA seats, while Jagan Mohan Reddy’s YSRCP managed only 11 seats. Since this overwhelming defeat, Jagan has been consistently blaming Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) for the result. Recently, he found an opportunity to reignite the debate, using the Haryana elections to bolster his argument against EVMs.
Jagan’s EVM Allegations and Haryana Connection
Jagan cleverly drew a parallel between the election outcomes in Haryana and Andhra Pradesh to criticize EVMs. In a tweet, Jagan expressed his disbelief, stating, “Yet another election result confounds popular perception. Haryana’s result is no different from Andhra Pradesh, on which cases are pending in courts. In a democracy like ours, Democracy should not only be prevalent but also be seen to be thriving. The only way to ensure both is going back to Paper Ballot.”
This statement indicates his continued efforts to demand a return to the paper ballot system and his reluctance to accept the recent election results.
Backlash Against Jagan’s EVM Narrative
Jagan’s EVM remarks have sparked a major backlash, both online and within his own party. Many of his critics pointed out that Jagan had no issues with EVMs when he secured 151 seats in 2019 but now questions their legitimacy after his defeat. Comments on his tweet highlighted the inconsistency, with many calling on him to accept the results instead of blaming the machines.
Even some of YSRCP supporters have expressed concerns, urging Jagan to move away from the EVM controversy and focus on rebuilding the party for the future.
The Way Forward for YCP
With the EVM issue receiving a lukewarm response, even from YCP supporters, Jagan now faces the difficult task of reshaping his party’s strategy and reconnecting with voters. The continuous focus on EVMs could further alienate supporters who are eager for a renewed focus on policy and development. It remains to be seen whether Jagan will heed these calls and steer YCP in a new direction.