Maharashtra Opposition MLAs Boycott Oath Ceremony, Citing EVM Concerns
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray announced today that MLAs from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) will boycott the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected Maharashtra assembly. The opposition alliance alleges tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the recent elections.
“Today we have decided that our winning MLA will not take oath today. We have doubts about the EVMs, we are not taking the oath today in protest. Democracy is being murdered,” Mr. Thackeray declared.
A Contentious Start to the New Assembly Session
This move comes amidst a special three-day session of the newly constituted 288-member Maharashtra legislative assembly, which began today. Under the guidance of pro-tem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar, the session will witness the typical ceremony of new members swearing oaths as MLAs, followed by the election of the assembly speaker, a crucial trust vote for the new government, and an address from the Governor. Mr. Kolambkar, a senior BJP MLA, was appointed pro-tem Speaker by Governor CP Radhakrishnan on Friday.
“The results have raised questions, the entire process seems tainted. People are unhappy, and something appears wrong,” alleged Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar, demonstrating the deep-seated anxieties within the opposition camp.
Mahayuti Alliance Sweeps Election Amid Controversy
The Mahayuti alliance, a coalition comprising the BJP, Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, secured a resounding victory in the November 20 elections, securing 230 of the 288 assembly seats. Following this victory, Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Chief Minister, and Mr. Shinde and Mr. Pawar took the oath as Deputy Chief Ministers on December 5.
However, the path to forming the new government was not without turbulence. A week-long suspense surrounded the Mahayuti’s choice of Chief Minister, with Mr. Thackeray labeling this delay an “insult to Maharashtra.” He further alleged that the BJP-led coalition took over a week after the election results to make a decision on their chief ministerial candidate. According to Mr. Thackeray, this delay and lack of transparency undermined the very fabric of democratic principles.
Accusations of Anarchy and Bias
Adding to the controversy, Mr. Thackeray criticized the BJP for announcing the ceremony to swear-in the new government before formally claiming the right to form the government. He characterized this move as “anarchy.”
“Rules seem to apply only to opposition parties,” he asserted, highlighting what he viewed as a double standard.
The MVA’s boycott of both the oath ceremony and the Mahayuti’s grand swearing-in ceremony, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of dignitaries, including Union ministers and NDA state leaders, at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan on Wednesday further fuels the simmering political tension. Adding to the spectacle, the event featured appearances from prominent figures in Bollywood, cricket, and the business world.
* Are there any historical examples of EVM tampering successfully swaying election outcomes?
## Boycotting Democracy: Are EVM Concerns Valid?
Today on the show, we’re discussing the explosive situation unfolding in Maharashtra. Following their election defeat, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance, led by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, is boycotting the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected assembly. Their reason? Allegations of tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs).
To help us dissect this complex situation, we have with us Dr. Zara Khan, an expert on election integrity and political science. Dr. Khan, thanks for joining us.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Khan, the MVA is making serious accusations. Do their concerns about EVM tampering hold any weight?
**Dr. Khan:** It’s crucial to acknowledge the anxiety within the opposition camp, especially given the historic lead of the ruling BJP alliance. However, it’s essential to separate unsubstantiated claims from actual evidence. While there have been scattered instances of EVM irregularities globally, they’ve rarely been proven to be widespread or have altered election outcomes significantly. [1](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/assembly-elections/maharashtra/as-long-as-there-are-evms-congress-cries-foul-play-amid-mahayutis-lead-in-maharashtra/articleshow/115589646.cms)
**Interviewer:** Yet, the MVA emphasizes that “democracy is being murdered.” This is a strong statement.
**Dr. Khan:**
Using inflammatory rhetoric can be detrimental to healthy democratic discourse. While concerns regarding electoral processes are valid and important, resorting to such language risks undermining public trust in the democratic process itself.
**Interviewer:** Should the MVA be taking this drastic step of boycotting the oath ceremony?
**Dr. Khan:**
Boycotting the oath-taking ceremony is a significant step with potentially serious consequences. While it signals their strong dissent, it also raises questions about their commitment to participating in the democratic process. The MVA should explore other avenues for addressing their concerns, such as demanding a thorough audit of EVMs or engaging in constructive dialogue with the Election Commission.
**Interviewer:**
What are the potential ramifications of this boycott for Maharashtra’s political landscape?
**Dr. Khan:**
This boycott could deepen the existing political divide in Maharashtra and further erode public trust in the electoral system. It’s crucial for all parties involved to prioritize a solution that upholds democratic principles and ensures a fair and transparent electoral process.
Thank you, Dr. Khan, for your insights.
This
controversial situation highlights
the ongoing debates surrounding
EVM reliability and the importance
of safeguarding democratic
processes. The consequences
of this boycott remain to be
seen, but it underscores the
need for greater transparency
and accountability
in our elections.
