Trichy braced itself today as the activist group Makkal Athikaram took to the streets in protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI). The demonstration, which commenced today on May 30, is a stark warning against perceived electoral malpractice, particularly focusing on the potential tampering of electronic voting machines (EVMs) allegedly by the ruling party
Makkal Athikaram, a group known for its involvement in various socio-political movements, has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, citing fears of EVM manipulation. Their protest comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding the final phase of Lok Sabha polling, scheduled to conclude on June 1.
This protest follows a similar call to action by another activist group, Makkal Iyakkangal-2024, which has announced a mass gathering in Chennai on 31st May with the aim of raising awareness about EVM tampering allegations.
Makkal Athikaram gained prominence for its role in spearheading the anti-Sterlite movement, which led to the closure of the copper smelting unit in Thoothukudi. However, critics have pointed out selective targeting, as other polluting units remain operational.
The impending release of exit poll results after the final phase of polling has heightened political tensions, with many media outlets and survey agencies predicting a landslide victory for the NDA alliance. In response, opposition parties, notably the I.N.D.I.A Alliance, have already begun to shift focus towards alleging EVM tampering as a means of deflecting from potential electoral defeat.
Congress MP Kapil Sibal recently conducted a press briefing addressing concerns over EVM tampering, echoing sentiments expressed by other opposition leaders. Meanwhile, political alliances are strategizing in Delhi, deliberating on crucial decisions such as selecting a prime ministerial candidate and finalising ministerial portfolios.
In a separate development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin’s participation in a meeting at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who argue it violates the model code of conduct. Critics have also pointed out perceived violations by Stalin and his colleagues, including summer vacations amidst ongoing political activity.
Protest and Campaign in the Name of Creating Awareness on EVM Tampering
In Tamil Nadu, I.N,D.I Alliance supporting elements are getting ready to blame EVM for I.N.D.I. Alliance defeat. The objective of the Naxalite group Makkal Athikaram is to warn Election Commission of India of possible EVM tampering by the ruling party to make sure the NDA alliance wins the elections.
Makkal Athikaram is also distributing pamphlets among the people at public places such as railway stations, bus stations, and market places. The slogan for the campaign of Makkal Athikaram is “Let us not allow the stealing of people’s votes.”. Makkal Athikaram is also actively posting on social media about EVM tampering in the name of creating awareness.
Another organisation named Makkal Iyakkangal (Peoples Movements) which is a consortium of Dravidian, Muslim, and anti-Hindu organisations, have announced a gathering on May 31 at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai. It is expected that functionaries from I.N.D.I Alliance parties, Dravidian organisations, Muslim organisations and Communist groups will participate in the gathering. The slogan for the gathering is “Hey Modi Government! Election Commission of India! Do not steal people’s votes! More protests and gatherings are expected in the coming days in the name of EVM tampering.
The happenings in the state are a clear indication that it has become a breeding ground for terrorists, anti-nationals, anti socials, religious fanatical groups, and Maoists who are thieving without any fetters. Two arms of the government recently clashed as a show of power that was considered to be a breakdown of the constitution. Crimes under the influence of drugs, murders, and seizures of narcotic drugs are on the rise.
The state government and its police are busy arresting social media activists, but not criminals. The NIA , while probing Karuakka Vinodh –arrested for throwing petrol bombs at Rajbhavan—found his concubine running a sex racket using teenage school students supplying to VIPS. But the Tamil Nadu police claimed credit for exposing the racket. It’s akin to the government’s police sticker-pasting others’ efforts. There have been raids and arrests of IS sympathisers and recruitment modules in Chennai after alerts from central agencies.
Critics warn that “ the state is inching forward to anarchy like West Bengal. Some strict action like imposing article 355 after the polls is needed before it reaching uncountable level and breakdown of constitution.
