Fact Check: Viral WhatsApp message "tender vote", "challenge vote" misleading; details here
New Delhi: A message circulating on WhatsApp is spreading false claims about the voting process in India, particularly regarding the concepts of "challenge vote" and "tender vote." The message advises voters to show their Aadhar card or voter ID and request a "challenge vote" if their name is not on the voter list, which is not true. Any person whose name is not on the electoral rolls cannot vote.
The message also incorrectly describes the concept of "challenged vote," which is when polling agents challenge the identity of a voter, and the presiding officer holds an inquiry into the challenge.
The concept of "challenge vote" does not exist under section 49A of the Conduct of Elections Rules 1961, as described in the message. The section, in reality, pertains to the design of electronic voting machines.
Regarding the claim that if someone finds that their vote has already been cast, they can request a "tender vote," this claim is true. Under section 42 of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, a person representing themselves as a particular elector can apply for a "tendered ballot paper" if another person has already voted as such an elector. They will be entitled to mark a ballot paper in the same manner as any other elector.
However, the claim that any polling booth recording more than 14% tender votes will trigger a repoll is false. Tendered votes are only considered when they are likely to affect the outcome of the election, such as when the margin of victory is less than the number of tendered votes. The Election Commission handbook also does not mention any specific percentage for triggering a repoll, so the figure of 14% is unfounded.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) spokesperson, Sheyphali Sharan, had earlier confirmed that a person whose name is missing from the voter list cannot vote. Therefore, the claim that voters can ask for a "challenge vote" using their Aadhar card or voter ID is misleading and false. The ECI advises voters to check their names on the electoral rolls before Election Day and update them if necessary.
Misinformation and false claims about the voting process can impact voter confidence and discourage people from exercising their right to vote. Therefore, it is essential to fact-check and verify information before sharing it with others. Voters can contact their local election officials or the Election Commission of India to clarify any doubts or queries about the voting process.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Speaker UT Khader attends local cricket tournament during Bhatkal visit
Bhatkal: Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly U. T. Khader visited Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district on Saturday and attended a local cricket match being played as part of a tournament organised by the Cosmos Sports Centre of Bhatkal.
After attending a programme at Anjuman Hami-E-Muslimeen, Khader proceeded to the Bhatkal Taluka Stadium, where the tournament is underway. He was accompanied by office-bearers of the Cosmos Sports Centre and several local community leaders.
Those present during the visit included President of Majlis-e-Islah Wa Tanzeem and former JD(S) leader Inayathullah Shabandri, Vice President of Tanzeem Atiqur Rahman Muniri, General Secretary Abdul Raqeeb MJ, President of Cosmos Sports Centre Ismail Anjum, Managing Director of Mohtisham Complexes S. M. Arshad, former president of the Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation Imtiyaz Udyawar, among others.
Addressing players and organisers, Khader extended his best wishes to the participating teams and urged the players to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship. He said such tournaments help promote unity and brotherhood among the youth.
The cricket tournament began on November 21 and will conclude with the final match on December 21. It is being organised as part of the golden jubilee celebrations of the Cosmos Sports Centre.
Cosmos Sports Centre is one of the member clubs of the Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation and is known for its active role in promoting sports in the town. Apart from sporting activities, the centre is also involved in various social and community initiatives, including efforts to promote education among students.
