ECI seeks EVMs’ release amid ongoing election case against Suresh Gopi

KOCHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sought the permission of the Kerala High Court to release the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used in the Thrissur parliamentary constituency during the last general elections, currently under the custody of the Thrissur district election officer. The move aims to facilitate the deployment of these EVMs in the upcoming elections.

The ECI clarified that the machines are not required for the adjudication of a petition filed by Binoy A S, AIYF Thrissur district president, against the election of BJP candidate and current Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Tourism, Suresh Gopi.

The petitioner alleged that Suresh Gopi and his election agents indulged in corrupt practices by invoking religious symbols during his campaign, and sought to declare his election null and void.

During the election campaign, the BJP candidate also gave gifts to voters as a gratification with the object of directly and indirectly inducing voters, alleged the petitioner. Hence, the election should be declared void as the candidate, his election agents and other persons committed corrupt practices.