Bengaluru: The Congress government in Karnataka has proposed reverting to the ballot paper system for all upcoming local body elections, including the five Corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority, citing declining confidence in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The decision was taken during the State Cabinet meeting on Thursday, with plans to recommend amendments to existing Acts, which will be placed before the Governor for approval within 15 days.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil stated that the move reflects public opinion and concerns over the credibility of EVMs, as well as complaints of malpractices in the voters’ list, including the inclusion of non-existent voters.

State Election Commissioner G S Sangreshi clarified that if the Acts are amended to conduct elections using ballot papers, the Commission would be obliged to comply and is ready to prepare a revised voters’ list.

However, the opposition BJP has criticized the move, alleging it is aimed at booth rigging. BJP State President B Y Vijayendra cited past instances where ballot paper recounts allegedly favored Congress and questioned the timing of the proposal, stating that if the government wants to revert to ballot papers, fresh Assembly elections should be conducted.

The proposal comes shortly after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi concluded his 16-day `Voter Adhikar Yatra,’ which highlighted alleged irregularities in voter lists and vote manipulation.