The Maharashtra Assembly election results have thrown up a major controversy, casting a shadow over the otherwise landslide victory of the NDA. In the Anushakti Nagar constituency, NCP candidate Fahad Ahmed, who had maintained a steady lead throughout the initial rounds of vote counting, experienced a dramatic reversal of fortune after round 16. His lead, which had been substantial, disappeared, with BJP-backed NCP candidate Sana Malik surging ahead by over 3,000 votes as the count neared its end.
This sudden shift has ignited serious allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) manipulation. Ahmed himself took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his concerns, stating that after a consistent lead across several rounds, EVMs that were reportedly 99% charged were opened, and the lead inexplicably switched. He directly appealed to the Election Commission of India (ECI) for a recount of rounds 16, 17, 18, and 19, alleging “rank manipulation.”
The situation quickly garnered national attention, with many echoing Ahmed’s concerns. One user on X commented, “The sudden lead shift after round 16 raises serious concerns about the credibility of the EVMs. We demand an immediate recount… to restore trust in the electoral process.” Others, however, dismissed the accusations, urging acceptance of defeat and pointing to explanations regarding battery percentages and their effect on vote tallies.
Adding fuel to the fire, actor Swara Bhasker also weighed in, highlighting the unusual timing of opening the 99% charged EVMs after Ahmed’s consistent lead. Bhasker’s tweet amplified the concerns about the integrity of the process and further fueled speculation of irregularities.
Fahad Ahmed, a former Samajwadi Party member, is contesting against Sana Malik, daughter of veteran leader Nawab Malik. His campaign in the south-central Anushakti Nagar constituency was marked by strong early support, making the sudden loss all the more perplexing and concerning.
The broader election results show the NDA securing a commanding lead, currently projected to win over 225 of the 288 seats. This is a stark contrast to the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s recent Lok Sabha performance, where they secured 30 out of 48 seats just a month prior. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP, which contested 87 seats, is currently leading in only 13, highlighting the significant shift in political power within the state.
The controversy surrounding Fahad Ahmed’s race and the allegations of EVM manipulation are sure to generate substantial debate and scrutiny in the coming days. The ECI’s response and any potential investigation into the matter will be crucial in determining the extent of public confidence in the electoral process.
