Political Parties Question Sudden Introduction of PADU Voting Machines
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and Shiv Sena UBT have raised strong objections to the introduction of new voting equipment just before the state's municipal corporation elections. Both parties expressed serious concerns about transparency and proper procedure.
Last-Minute Machine Deployment Sparks Controversy
MNS president Raj Thackeray voiced his frustration about the Printing Auxiliary Display Unit machines. He stated that political parties received no prior information about these devices. "No political party was told about this machine," Thackeray emphasized. "It was never shown to us. What is this machine and why was it not explained to political parties?"
Thackeray made these comments after meeting with Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray at his Shivtirth residence. The two leaders discussed their shared concerns about the electoral process.
Allegations of Favoritism Toward Ruling Party
The MNS leader alleged that election authorities were using the new machinery to assist the ruling side. He claimed the State Election Commission was making decisions that favored the current government. Thackeray specifically criticized State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare for these actions.
"The poll machinery is being used to help the ruling side," Thackeray asserted. He suggested this gave unfair advantages in closely contested seats.
Official Clarification on PADU Machine Purpose
BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani provided clarification about the new devices. He explained that PADU machines would serve as backup units for Electronic Voting Machines. These devices would only activate if technical issues arose with primary voting equipment.
"We are showing the PADU machine, which will serve as a backup option for voting," Gagrani stated in a video message. "A total of 140 PADU units have been sent, and Regional Officers will manage them at polling booths."
The commissioner emphasized that this marked the first election use for these machines. He noted they would rarely be needed during actual voting.
Formal Complaint Filed with Election Commission
Raj Thackeray revealed that a formal letter had been sent to the State Election Commission. The document requested detailed information about the PADU machines. It also questioned the process through which authorities introduced this equipment.
Thackeray insisted that any voting system changes should involve political party discussions well before elections. "How can new systems be brought in without even informing those contesting the elections?" he questioned.
Additional Concerns About Campaign Timing
The MNS leader raised another issue about campaign schedule changes. He noted that candidates could now meet voters door-to-door until 5 pm on January 14. Official campaigning had ended at 5 pm on January 13.
"Earlier, there was always a gap day between the end of campaigning and polling," Thackeray observed. "This was the norm in Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Why has this rule changed now?"
He expressed concern about potential misuse of these extended voter meetings. Since pamphlet distribution remained prohibited, Thackeray questioned what activities would occur during these visits. "If leaflets are not allowed, what is permitted during these visits? Is money distribution being ignored?" he asked.
Call for Vigilance During Voting
Raj Thackeray appealed to MNS workers and opposition party cadres to remain alert during Thursday's polling. He urged them to watch carefully for any irregularities or procedural violations.
The MNS president claimed the Election Commission showed unwillingness to answer opposition questions. He described this as concerning for democratic processes.
Election officials maintain that PADU machines provide necessary technical backup. They insist these devices will ensure smooth voting operations if EVMs encounter problems.
