Congress Denies Involvement In VVPAT Petition, Responds To PM Modi’s ‘Tight Slap’ Remark

The Congress party clarified on Friday that it had no direct or indirect involvement in the petition regarding VVPATs (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) rejected by the Supreme Court. However, it affirmed its commitment to continue advocating for the wider use of VVPATs to enhance public confidence in the electoral system.

The Supreme Court recently dismissed pleas seeking comprehensive cross-verification of votes cast through EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) with VVPATs, cautioning against blindly distrusting any aspect of the electoral system, as it could foster undue scepticism.

Addressing the issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress, RJD, and other parties of fostering distrust against EVMs, alleging that they had previously marginalized the votes of the underprivileged. He hailed the Supreme Court’s verdict as a rebuke to these parties.

Responding to the Prime Minister’s remarks, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh referenced the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on electoral bonds, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in upholding transparency and legality. Ramesh highlighted the court’s decision, declaring the electoral bonds scheme illegal and unconstitutional, as a significant rebuke to the government.

Ramesh further criticized the Prime Minister, alleging corruption and misconduct in fundraising activities, and refuted claims of a “Modi wave,” asserting instead that the Prime Minister is responsible for spreading poison in the country.

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