Politics

EC agrees to Congress’ request for in-person meeting on Maharashtra polls, sets Dec 3 for discussion

The Congress party had raised concerns about "inconsistencies" and a "sudden spike" in voter turnout after 5 p.m

November 30, 2024

Election Commission rejects Congress’ claims of issues with voter turnout data, invites delegation for discussion

The Election Commission of India (ECI) responded to Congress‘ complaints and requests for an in-person meeting about the Maharashtra Assembly elections on Saturday. The Congress party had raised concerns about “inconsistencies” and a “sudden spike” in voter turnout after 5 p.m. on election day.

The EC dismissed Congress’ claims of issues with voter turnout data, saying that the figures were being updated continuously on the Voter Turnout App. The Commission also assured Congress that it would provide a detailed response to the issues raised and invited a party delegation to meet in person on December 3 at 5 p.m.

“After suitably hearing you further in-person, the Commission will convey its detailed reply to the issues raised in your letter at the earliest possible time,” it said in a statement.

The Election Commission also noted that it had previously shared information with Congress regarding the difference in voter turnout percentages between 5 p.m. and the final tally.

The Congress had submitted a 12-page memorandum to the EC on Friday, highlighting issues with the Maharashtra polls. The party claimed that there was an effort to reduce votes from areas that supported the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance. Congress pointed out that in 50 Assembly seats where voter numbers increased by 50,000, the ruling party and its allies won 47 seats.

The second concern raised was a surge in voter turnout from 58.22% at 5 p.m. to 65.02% by 11:30 p.m. The party claimed that this sudden increase in turnout was linked to unexpected losses for the MVA.

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