February 06, 2018: Expressing concern CPIM today lodged a complaint with the CEO of Tripura Sriram Tarani Kant relating to ‘faulty’ EVM used during voters’ awareness and mock poll programme at a booth in 47-Ampinagar Assembly Constituency.
Speaking to media today in Agartala, CPIM State secretary Bijan Dhar said that following ECI guidelines, Commission was conducting awareness program on EVM-VVPAT as well as holding mock polls at 47 no booth of 41-Ampinagar Constituency. However, common people who took part in the mock poll drill found that most of their votes went to particular symbol. “Even if voters pressed on ‘NOTA’ button, it went to a particular symbol”, alleged Bijan Dhar. After local people raised the issue, mock poll and training programmes were stopped, he said.
He said that the CEO had assured them to look into the matter. Meanwhile, CEO Taranikant today said that necessary steps have been initiated and a detailed report from the concerned RO. He also said, process of EVM commissioning will begin from tomorrow and will continue till February 13 next.
Moreover, CPIM also complained about using Governor Tathagata Roy’s photo in a booklet published by BJP where poll-promise relating to implementation of 7th CPC was made. While meeting the CEO, Dhar said CPIM expressed its concern over ‘sudden influx of people from other states’. However, in reply the CEO assured Dhar and said, before 48 hours of polling date, no one – except the voters – would be allowed to stay in a particular booth area.
