National desk
24 November
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, a former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has accused the ruling government of election rigging following her party’s defeat in the recent by-elections for nine assembly seats. Speaking to reporters, she criticized the state administration for the violence reported during the polls, particularly in Sambhal, and held them accountable for the unrest.
Mayawati announced that her party would no longer participate in by-elections until the Election Commission takes strict measures to ensure fair voting. She expressed concerns over alleged misuse of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), claiming that tampering with these machines has replaced earlier ballot paper manipulations.
“There is widespread discussion about the fairness of these elections. People believe that just as fake votes were cast during the ballot paper era, similar rigging is now happening with EVMs,” Mayawati remarked.
The BSP leader’s statement reflects growing frustration over what she perceives as a lack of transparency in the voting process. Her decision marks a significant shift in the party’s strategy, as it steps back from contesting by-elections until stronger reforms are implemented.