Bhubaneswar, Nov 10: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, R.S. Gopalan, has firmly denied allegations made by a political party — Biju Janata Dal (BJD) — regarding the unauthorized movement of EVMs from Ganjam to Nuapada.

The claims surfaced after a news channel aired footage suggesting a truck loaded with EVMs was being secretly transported and hidden.

Addressing the media, Gopalan clarified that there are 30 EVM warehouses across Odisha, including one in Nuapada. The EVMs in use there are from the district’s own stock, and no machines have been brought in from outside. He emphasized that Ganjam district has two EVM warehouses, neither of which has been opened this month.

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He called the allegations “impossible and baseless,” stating that the movement of EVMs follows a strict protocol and cannot be done arbitrarily. “It is not feasible for a Collector to transport EVMs from one district to another without due process,” he said.

Gopalan reaffirmed the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) commitment to transparency and integrity saying: “The ECI has remained trustworthy for 75 years.” He also noted that no court has ever proven any allegation against EVMs. He urged voters not to fall for misinformation and to trust the electoral process.

Regarding rumours of cash distribution during the silent period before elections, the CEO stated that no such complaints have been received so far. However, he assured that the administration is maintaining strict surveillance to ensure free and fair elections.