BENGALURU: A coalition of civil society organizations in Karnataka has launched a public campaign opposing the Election Commission’s proposal to introduce Remote Voting Machines (RVMs) for migrant workers. The groups argue that the plan lacks transparency, violates constitutional principles, and risks excluding marginalized citizens from the democratic process.
The campaign, led by the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), Campaign for Electoral Reforms in India (CERI), and other advocacy networks, questions the absence of public consultation or parliamentary scrutiny before rolling out the technology. Activists warn that RVMs could compromise the secrecy of the ballot and weaken trust in electoral systems.
The coalition has begun a statewide awareness drive and a signature campaign demanding the withdrawal of the RVM proposal. Members emphasize that electoral inclusion should focus on making voting booths more accessible, improving registration systems, and issuing portable voter IDs for migrant workers rather than introducing untested machines.
They argue that technology must not replace democratic safeguards. “The right to vote must remain transparent and verifiable,” said one campaign representative, highlighting fears of centralized control and potential manipulation.
Civil society groups have also urged the Election Commission to strengthen existing voting mechanisms and hold consultations with all stakeholders before proceeding with any new model. Their campaign aims to protect constitutional values and ensure that every citizen’s vote is counted fairly and securely.
