PM Modi In Goa Demands Congress Apology For EVM Claims, Reiterates 'Vote Bank' Charge Over SC, ST Reservation

Prime Minister Modi demands an apology from Congress for spreading falsehoods about EVMs, citing the Supreme Court's endorsement of their efficacy. He accuses Congress of blaming EVMs for electoral defeats.

File Photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Source : PTI

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has demanded an apology from the Congress party for what he termed as spreading falsehoods about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). His remarks come after the Supreme Court's verdict endorsing the efficacy of EVMs, emphasising their role in fortifying India's democratic process. Addressing a massive crowd at an election rally in the South Goa Lok Sabha constituency, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of Goa in his political journey, stating, "All my turning points have happened in Goa."

The Prime Minister seized upon the recent Supreme Court ruling which dismissed pleas advocating for a return to paper ballots, asserting that doubts regarding EVM tampering were baseless. He accused the Congress of consistently casting aspersions on the integrity of EVMs, particularly when faced with electoral defeats. Modi remarked, "Whenever they lose elections, they blame it on EVMs."

Highlighting the Supreme Court's affirmation of the reliability of EVMs, Modi challenged the Congress, asking whether they should apologise for their unfounded allegations. He criticised the Congress for their purported arrogance and unwillingness to accept responsibility. "They won't apologise. They are in the seventh heaven with arrogance. They can go to any extent to defame Modi," he remarked.

As the nation progresses through the electoral process, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in securing another term for his government, citing the BJP-led NDA's commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of citizens through a comprehensive development approach. He contrasted this with what he described as the self-serving agenda of the I.N.D.I.A. bloc.

Modi reiterated his party's commitment to the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with all, Development for all), stating, "Goa is the right model of the saturation approach." He pledged to continue working tirelessly for the betterment of the nation, asserting, "Modi works day and night. Modi lives your dreams."

Promising significant initiatives in the coming years, Prime Minister Modi outlined plans for the construction of three crore new houses for the economically disadvantaged, assistance for middle-class families to build homes, and free medical treatment for senior citizens above 70 years old.

In addition to highlighting his government's efforts in prioritising Goa for COVID-19 vaccination, Modi said that the "Wed In India" mission "would especially benefit Goa due to its scenic landscape".

Congress Wants To Give Part From SC, ST, OBC Reservation To Their Vote Bank: PM Modi

Accusing the Congress of fostering negativity and disregarding the Indian Constitution, Modi cited remarks made by Congress' South Goa candidate, Viriato Fernandes, regarding the imposition of the Constitution on Goa after its liberation from Portuguese rule. He warned against the resurgence of Article 370, alleging that the INDI alliance was conspiring to reinstate it.

"Article 370 which gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir continued for so long because of this mentality. INDI alliance is speaking about bringing back Article 370. Will we allow Article 370 to be brought back? Congress is involved in dangerous games to please its vote bank. Congress wants to give one part from SC, ST, OBC reservation to their vote bank. They have started the work in Karnataka," Modi alleged, as quoted by PTI.

Prime Minister Modi also accused the opposition of advocating for a 55 per cent tax on people's wealth and criticised their alleged efforts to manipulate reservation policies for electoral gains.

The rally was attended by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Goa BJP chief Sadanand Shet Tanavade, and the party's candidates for the North Goa and South Goa constituencies, Shripad Naik and Pallavi Dempo respectively.