Jagan Mohan Reddy, the YSRCP chief, made a scathing attack against TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu, hours after the latter alleged flaws and irregularities in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and demanded re-polling in several booths across the state.
Jagan told media, "Out of 3.93 lakh voters, at least 80% of voters have participated in the polls, and they could see who they've voted for in VVPAT, including me; I saw who I voted for. When 80% of people are satisfied, how can anybody even comment anything negative. Except the fact that they're losing and searching for reasons and indulging in mudslinging.”
Even as polling was underway across the state, Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) saying that EVMs were not working in 30% of the polling stations, and that re-polls should be conducted in places where voting had not begun till 9.30am.
In the letter seeking review on EVMs given the complaints and alleged flaws, Naidu said, "We have for long been saying that there is scope for technical problems and manipulation in EVMs. Even technologically advanced countries are using ballot papers."
Jagan added, "Chandrababu Naidu's whole intent was to reduce the polling percentage. Every statement he has given leads to that, but fortunately people have understood his ploy and haven’t fallen into his trap.
While claiming that his party will see a "landslide victory" in the state, Jagan accused CM Naidu of stooping to a new low by threatening the EC officials and resorting to fear-mongering by making statements on EVMs.
Accusing the CM of conspiring against elections, Jagan said, ”Chandrababu Naidu tried to reduce the poll percentage, he should bow his head in shame as a CM,” while adding that more than 80% poll percentage shows that people have come forward to protect democracy.
He alleged that TDP has resorted to "attacks" on YSRCP cadres and on polling booths as the polls didn't go in their favour.
According to the State Election Commission, at least 25 incidents of violence have taken place, which have claimed two lives across the state. Polling in several booths across the state went on till midnight.
Results of the 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies will be declared on May 23.