Use of EVM: Law challenged in Supreme Court

Islamabad: Recently-passed law on the use of the electronic voting machine (EVM) and introduction of I-voting for overseas Pakistanis has been challenged in the Supreme Court.

The petition has been filed in the Supreme Court by Advocate Saleemullah Khan. The petition has been filed under Article 184 (3) of the Constitution. The Secretary to the Federal Government, Election Commission of Pakistan has been made a party in the petition.

The petition seeks annulment of the amendment relating to EVM. 

The petitioner took the stance that 33 bills were passed in the November 17 meeting. There was no discussion in the parliament on the passed bills. The amendment passed is unconstitutional and based on malice. The amendment will open the door for fraud in the country.

The petition states that the cost of EVM is more than its scope, the ruling party will benefit from EVM. The amendment has reduced the powers of the Election Commission which is against the constitution of Pakistan. The amendment did not explain the voting powers for Overseas Pakistanis.