Karnataka Cabinet Gives Nod To Use Of Ballot Papers In Panchayat Polls

Last Updated:February 06, 2026, 14:56 IST

The state government has expressed concerns about the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The Karnataka government on Thursday gave its approval to use ballot papers and ballot boxes for upcoming panchayat elections. The decision clears the way for changes in the law ahead of the Panchayat polls.

Speaking about the same, State Minister HK Patil said that the approved Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2026, will allow elections to be conducted using traditional voting methods instead of electronic machines.

Patil stated that the existing law does not contain provisions for ballot papers and boxes, and necessary legal changes will now be made wherever required. He confirmed that the forthcoming Panchayat elections will be conducted through this method.

The state government has expressed concerns about the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). It believes public confidence in the machines has declined, prompting the shift to paper ballots.

Last September, the Congress government had already decided to recommend to the State Election Commission that future panchayat and urban local body elections be held through ballot papers rather than EVMs, citing questions raised by people over their credibility.

News india Karnataka Cabinet Gives Nod To Use Of Ballot Papers In Panchayat Polls

Read More