Elections for 12 district councils and 125 panchayat samitis were held across the state, with polling conducted on February 7. The process sparked controversy in Solapur district after three Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were found at a roadside dhaba, triggering widespread concern. The incident occurred in the Mohol Assembly constituency, where the machines were reportedly discovered at a dhaba near Mohol city. The unexpected location of the EVMs has raised serious questions about election management and security protocols, prompting political reactions and renewed scrutiny of the Election Commission’s handling of polling equipment during the election process.
Sub-Divisional Officer Santoshkumar Deshmukh confirmed the recovery of the three EVM machines and termed the incident unfortunate and serious. Clarifying the situation, he stated that the machines found were additional units and were not used during polling. According to Deshmukh, two extra EVMs had been kept with a zonal officer, and the lapse may have occurred due to miscommunication between the official concerned and the vehicle driver responsible for transportation. He added that the recovered machines have now been securely placed in a separate room within the strong room, and action will be initiated against those found responsible.
The issue was brought to light by Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Umesh Patil, who visited the site along with party workers after receiving information about suspicious activity near the Swarajya Bar and Hotel area. Reacting sharply, former Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Ambadas Danve questioned how EVMs could end up at a dhaba when buses or designated vehicles are usually arranged for their transport. He alleged that repeated doubts surrounding EVMs are being ignored and accused the Election Commission of indirectly aiding the ruling party, intensifying the political debate around the incident.