Omar Abdullah Questions EVM Critics, Opposes 'One Nation, One Election

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi | Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed ongoing debates over electronic voting machines (EVMs) and the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, offering sharp commentary on both issues.

On the controversy surrounding EVMs, Abdullah called for consistency from critics. “If someone has a complaint about EVMs, that complaint should remain valid throughout the year. It cannot surface only when you lose,” he said, adding that concerns should also be raised after victories to maintain credibility.

Reflecting on the days of ballot paper voting, Abdullah warned against romanticizing the past. “Should we go back to ballot paper? Have we forgotten what used to happen with ballot boxes? The way votes were inserted into ballot boxes—I have not forgotten it,” he said, highlighting electoral malpractices associated with the traditional system.

Turning to the contentious 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, Abdullah reiterated his party’s opposition. “As far as I know, when it was introduced, we opposed it. We will continue to oppose it in the future,” he stated, without elaborating on specific objections.

The 'One Nation, One Election' initiative, which aims to align parliamentary and state assembly elections, has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue it will save resources, while opponents like Abdullah fear it could centralize power and disrupt the federal structure.