Fadnavis Casts Vote in Nagpur, Calls Elections a Democratic Festival
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis participated in Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections on Thursday. He voted in Prabhag No. 15 during the polling process. After casting his ballot, Fadnavis spoke with journalists at the polling station.
The Chief Minister described elections as a Lokshahi festival or democracy celebration. He encouraged all citizens to take part actively in this democratic exercise. Fadnavis emphasized that voting represents more than just a right for people.
He stated that contributing to the civic system through voting constitutes a fundamental duty of every responsible citizen. The Chief Minister explained that strong cities and robust democracies require full participation from everyone.
Sharp Criticism of Opposition Over Alleged Violence
Fadnavis launched a strong attack against opposition parties during his media interaction. He specifically condemned what he called an attack on BJP candidate Bhushan Shingne. The Chief Minister accused Congress workers of resorting to violent methods.
According to Fadnavis, this violence occurred because opposition members sensed their impending defeat in elections. He claimed Shingne suffered serious injuries including fractures during this incident.
When elections cannot be won through democratic means, attacking candidates becomes an assault on democracy itself, Fadnavis declared. He expressed confidence that such incidents would not weaken the BJP campaign momentum.
The Chief Minister predicted that Maharashtra voters would respond appropriately through their ballot choices. He asserted that people would deliver a clear verdict against such undemocratic tactics.
Defending Election Processes and Equipment
Fadnavis addressed concerns about election procedures raised by opposition parties. He criticized what he called repeated attempts to cast doubt on democratic institutions. The Chief Minister said opposition members kept raising objections about election processes and equipment.
He described this approach as following a worn-out script that had already failed in courts. Fadnavis noted that opposition parties lost legal battles in both High Court and Supreme Court.
They continue spreading confusion despite losing everywhere, he remarked. The Chief Minister said this behavior only reinforced his belief in certain victory for his party.
Regarding additional equipment used during vote counting, Fadnavis provided clarification. He explained that Election Commission and civic authorities already briefed all political party representatives about this system.
Transparency and Technical Backup Systems
The Chief Minister detailed the purpose of additional election equipment. He said these systems served as backup measures to prevent potential data loss. Technical failures during counting processes necessitated such precautions according to Fadnavis.
He assured everyone that no misuse would occur with these backup systems. Complete transparency exists throughout the election process, Fadnavis emphasized.
He warned that raising unnecessary doubts could weaken public trust in democratic institutions. The Chief Minister demonstrated his own finger with indelible ink mark to counter rumors.
Fadnavis showed journalists the voting mark still visible on his finger. He suggested Election Commission should examine any genuine concerns about ink effectiveness. However, he cautioned against creating controversies over every minor election issue.
Looking Beyond Elections to Governance
When asked about his polling day schedule, Fadnavis revealed he had no time for relaxation. He indicated that preparations for future governance had already commenced. The Chief Minister confirmed his upcoming travel plans to Davos for international engagements.
This travel signaled the government continued focusing on investment and development matters. Fadnavis avoided direct comments about Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections specifically.
He concluded by reiterating his faith in the electorate wisdom. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that people would choose stability and development through their votes.
