Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud dismissed opposition concerns about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), reaffirming their validity as upheld by the Supreme Court. He emphasized the need to trust judicial decisions. The Supreme Court recently reinforced EVMs’ advantages, urging against a return to paper ballots, citing their security and simplicity in the voting process.
New Delhi: Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud on Wednesday dismissed opposition parties’ doubts over the authenticity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and reaffirmed that the Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld their validity.
Speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the Delhi Assembly elections, Chandrachud emphasized the court’s clear stance on EVMs, urging people to trust the judicial verdicts. Delhi went to polls on February 5, with counting scheduled for February 8.
What Did Former CJI Chandrachud Say?
When asked about the opposition’s concerns regarding EVMs, Chandrachud firmly responded, saying:
“Well, this is not a day to discuss this. The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld the validity of the EVMs. The Supreme Court is the last voice in the constitutional space on adjudication, and it has affirmed the validity of the EVMs. And I think we must accept it.”
Supreme Court’s Verdict on EVMs
The Supreme Court, in a landmark verdict last year, dismissed calls for a return to paper ballots and 100% cross-verification of votes cast using Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT). The court held that EVMs are simple, secure, and user-friendly, effectively eliminating booth capturing and bogus voting.
It further warned that ordering a reversion to the paper ballot system would undo significant electoral reforms.
EVMs Are Secure and Reliable, Says Supreme Court
The apex court also reviewed the technical and administrative safeguards of EVMs and stated:
“A voting mechanism must uphold and adhere to the principles of security, accountability, and accuracy. An overcomplex voting system may engender doubt and uncertainty, thereby easing the chances of manipulation. In our considered opinion, the EVMs are simple, secure, and user-friendly.”
With the Supreme Court consistently backing EVMs, Chandrachud’s remarks reaffirm the judiciary’s trust in the country’s electoral process.
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