By now, Akash Banerjee’s penchant for sensationalism has become a predictable circus act. In his recent diatribe, he revived the tired trope of EVM hacking—an accusation as baseless as it is tiresome. Banerjee’s latest video is a cacophony of conspiracy theories, handpicked anecdotes, and selective outrage. If he’s so sure about EVMs being compromised, maybe it’s time the Election Commission of India (ECI) invited him to walk the talk.
Maybe he should try hacking an EVM, and when he inevitably fails, the EC should file a defamation or criminal case for spreading malicious lies with the intent to sow chaos.
The Same Old Song And Dance
Banerjee harps on alleged voter roll manipulations and strategic deletions, weaving a narrative of institutional corruption and “hacked” democracy. While these claims may sound juicy to his audience, they crumble under scrutiny. The voter roll revision process is well-documented and transparent, involving field verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The ECI has repeatedly stated that no voter’s name can be removed without due process.
But facts don’t matter when you’re chasing clicks, do they? Banerjee cherry-picks isolated incidents, slaps on unverified claims, and wraps it all in the guise of investigative journalism.
EVM Myths: A Zombie That Is Brought Back To Life Repeatedly By The Likes Of Akash Banerjee
The paranoia around Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) is a classic example of flogging a dead horse. Despite years of baseless allegations, no political party—including Congress—has ever produced an iota of evidence to prove EVM manipulation. The Supreme Court, too, has repeatedly upheld the integrity of EVMs, and the introduction of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) adds an additional layer of transparency.
Still, Banerjee insists on whipping up hysteria, claiming that EVMs are “hacked.” Well, Mr. Banerjee, here’s an open challenge: step into the ECI’s offices and show us how it’s done. When you fail—because you will fail—be prepared to face the consequences of spreading lies aimed at undermining the democratic process.
Banerjee’s rhetoric is not just irresponsible; it’s dangerous. By feeding into baseless fears, he risks eroding public trust in India’s electoral system—a system that has been a beacon of democratic integrity in the world’s largest democracy. Worse, his claims embolden fringe elements and contribute to the growing cynicism that undermines voter turnout.
Enough Is Enough
The ECI should take a firm stand against this disinformation campaign. Invite Banerjee to demonstrate his allegations in a controlled environment. When he fails, the law must take its course. Spreading unsubstantiated rumors is not free speech—it’s an attack on the foundation of democracy. And if he’s so keen on dramatics, perhaps he’d benefit from a belt treatment, figuratively speaking, to remind him of the responsibilities that come with having a platform.
Akash Banerjee’s antics have gone unchecked for too long. It’s time to call out his propaganda for what it is: a desperate bid for attention masquerading as activism. Democracy deserves better than this circus act.
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