Mumbai- In a sharp critique of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Maharashtra Congress President Nana F. Patole has leveled serious accusations about the integrity of the electoral system. Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur, Patole claimed that the BJP is systematically attempting to compromise the democratic framework through manipulations of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

Patole raised specific concerns about the voting machines, alleging irregular practices in their deployment. He pointed out a suspicious discrepancy between the EVMs used in the Lok Sabha elections and those brought in for the Maharashtra Assembly polls, suggesting the machines were transported from Gujarat under questionable circumstances.

The Congress leader went further, alleging conflicts of interest by suggesting that BJP members hold positions on the boards of EVM manufacturing companies. He also criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI), claiming the constitutional body is operating under undue political influence.

The allegations come amid a broader political context of mounting opposition protests. Legislators from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition - comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Nationalist Congress Party - have been staging vocal demonstrations in the state legislature.

Their protests extend beyond EVM concerns, encompassing multiple issues including farmers' distress, a custodial death in Parbhani, and the killing of a local Sarpanch in Beed. The opposition has been vocally condemning the current state government's handling of these matters.

The legislators have been using slogans and placards to draw attention to what they perceive as systemic failures and potential political misconduct. In response to the mounting pressure, the Assembly Speaker indicated that the Parbhani incident would be discussed in an upcoming session.

Adding another layer to the political discourse, Patole also criticized the proposed One Nation-One Election concept, describing it as another mechanism to potentially undermine democratic processes.

While the BJP and Election Commission have consistently rejected such allegations, the Maharashtra Congress continues to maintain its stance of electoral skepticism.