Rahul Gandhi’s Aide, Sam Pitroda, to Hold Press Conference on EVM Concerns
New Delhi: Following the setbacks in the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh, Sam Pitroda, the technocrat and Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, has once again cast doubt on the electronic voting machines (EVMs). He asserts that he, along with international experts, will soon reveal how EVMs can be manipulated at will and how interference is possible.
Pitroda urged political parties to organize protests against EVMs and contemplate boycotting elections. Known for his proximity to former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Pitroda argued that EVMs can be manipulated conveniently.
The IOC chairman, who had closely collaborated with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, contended that the current EVMs used in India are not standalone machines. He pinpointed the problem emerging when the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine was linked with the EVMs.
According to Pitroda, VVPAT is a distinct device with both hardware and software components. He raised concerns about the Special Random Number (SLU) connector, which is used to link VVPAT to EVMs. This connector, according to him, discloses the vote distribution before voting, and its programming raises questions.
Pitroda insisted that after the addition of SLU, EVMs cease to be standalone machines, allowing various manipulations. He proposed the use of a printer that preserves the slip for five years instead of the current thermal printer, and the printed slip should be handed to the voter to cast in a separate box unconnected to any electronic device.
The Congress leader emphasized that technology experts worldwide have raised concerns about EVMs, but the Election Commission of India and the Supreme Court have not addressed them. He expressed full suspicion that EVMs can be rigged, causing a crisis of confidence.
Pitroda called for political parties to protest against EVMs, conduct signature campaigns, and raise awareness. He suggested that, if necessary, the youth should take to the streets in protest. Pitroda affirmed that Rahul Gandhi is serious about the EVM issue and plans to hold a press conference with technical experts soon.
