Karnataka to Conduct Panchayat Elections Using Ballot Papers Instead of EVMs

Karnataka Cabinet Opts for Paper-Based Voting

The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the use of ballot papers and ballot boxes for upcoming panchayat elections, signalling a departure from Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at the grassroots level. The decision reflects the state government’s assessment that public confidence in electronic voting has weakened in rural and local governance settings, prompting a shift towards more visible and traditional voting methods.

Legal Amendments to Enable the Change

The Cabinet clearance allows the government to amend the existing Panchayat law to formally permit paper-based voting. Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister H K Patil stated that the current Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj framework does not explicitly provide for ballot papers and ballot boxes.

To address this gap, the government plans to introduce the Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2026 . Once the Bill is passed by the legislature and notified, panchayat elections can legally be conducted using ballot papers instead of EVMs.

Government’s Concerns Over EVM Credibility

Ministers have cited declining public trust in EVMs as the principal reason behind the policy shift. According to the state government, citizens have increasingly raised concerns about transparency and reliability in electronic voting, particularly at the village level. The Congress-led administration believes that reverting to paper ballots could enhance voter confidence and reinforce democratic participation in local self-government institutions.

Policy Continuity and Election Commission Interface

The Cabinet decision follows a policy stance adopted in September last year, when the government resolved to recommend ballot paper-based elections for panchayats and urban local bodies. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had endorsed this approach and conveyed it to the State Election Commission , indicating continuity in the government’s thinking.

The actual conduct of elections will now be governed by the amended law and procedural directions issued by the State Election Commission.

Implications for Grassroots Democracy

Reintroducing ballot papers is expected to affect election logistics, including longer counting periods, higher manpower deployment, and increased administrative preparation. Supporters argue that paper ballots allow greater transparency and public verification, while critics caution about operational complexity and delays. The state government maintains that restoring public trust in democratic processes outweighs these challenges, especially at the panchayat level where citizen participation is most direct.

Important Facts for Exams

• Panchayat elections are conducted by State Election Commissions

• EVMs are not constitutionally mandatory for all categories of elections

• Panchayat Raj legislation is framed and amended by state legislatures

• Local body elections are legally distinct from Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections