Karnataka Opposition Accuses State Election Commission of Printing 90 Lakh Voter Cards
R. Ashok alleges that the commission breached norms by producing ninety lakh identity cards at a cost of ₹20 crore, a move he says facilitates irregularities in upcoming GBA polls. The commission refutes the charge, intensifying political friction.
The concrete rupture unfolded as the Leader of Opposition in Karnataka’s Assembly publicly charged the State Election Commission with a massive procurement that appeared to contravene established electoral procedures. The alleged printing of ninety lakh voter identification cards, each costing a substantial sum, was presented as evidence of an attempt to manipulate the forthcoming Greater Bengaluru Area (GBA) elections.
Underlying tension sharpened as the commission issued a categorical denial, insisting that the cards were produced in line with statutory requirements and that no procedural breach occurred. The episode has inflamed partisan rivalry, with opposition figures demanding a forensic audit while the ruling party defends the commission’s autonomy, framing the accusations as politically motivated.
Downstream, the controversy could trigger a broader inquiry into electoral roll management, potentially delaying the GBA polls or prompting reforms in voter‑card issuance. Stakeholders anticipate heightened scrutiny from the Election Commission of India, and civil‑society groups may mobilise to monitor the integrity of the electoral process, influencing the political calculus in Karnataka for the coming year.
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