Election Oversight Controversy: Congress Questions Counting Agents’ Exclusion

Congress Raises Concerns Over Counting Agents’ Access in Lok Sabha Elections

In the wake of the final phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader Ajay Maken has voiced significant concerns regarding a new rule that purportedly prevents candidates’ counting agents from being present at the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) tables during the vote counting process. This development has stirred controversy and debate among political circles and the electorate alike.

Maken, a seasoned politician who has contested nine elections, expressed his apprehension on social platform X, stating, “Candidate’s Counting Agents’ at the ARO table are NOT being allowed for the first time!!! If true, this is bigger than the alleged EVM rigging! I am flagging this issue for all candidates! I hope @ECISVEEP rectifies it soon.” His post highlights the unprecedented nature of this rule change and its potential implications on the transparency of the vote counting process.

The issue came to light following the conclusion of the marathon seven-phase polling, which saw an approximate voter turnout of 62.36 percent. The Election Commission has since responded to Maken’s concerns, with Delhi’s chief electoral officer clarifying that counting agents are indeed permitted at the tables of RO/AROs.

As the nation anticipates the counting of votes scheduled for June 4, the political atmosphere is charged with predictions and counterclaims. Several exit polls have forecasted a sweeping victory for the BJP-led NDA, with projections of the party improving upon its 2019 tally of 303 Lok Sabha seats. In contrast, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has dismissed these predictions, confidently asserting on X that the opposition INDIA coalition will secure a minimum of 295 seats, thereby achieving a clear majority.

The BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is campaigning for a third consecutive term. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc is determined to halt the ruling party’s momentum and seize power. With the election results just around the corner, all eyes are on the unfolding political drama that will shape the country’s governance for the next five years.