Per the news agency report, the article alleged that Waikar's relative used a phone to "unlock" an electronic voting machine (EVM) during the vote count. The returning officer for the constituency, Vandana Suryavanshi, called the allegation "false news" and issued a defamation notice to the publication. She clarified that EVMs are standalone systems, non-programmable, and lack wireless communication capabilities.

Waikar won the Mumbai North-West seat with 48 votes over Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Amol Kirtikar. Nirupam told reporters that the English daily accepted the inaccuracy of the news story, reported PTI. 

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.76%

AAP 43.10%

INC 24.14%

Submit

View All In Poll

According to the report, Nirupam stated, "I urge for a similar accountability from Rahul Gandhi, (lawyer) Prashant Bhushan, and other leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc for amplifying the misinformation. Aaditya Thackeray used the same news to perpetuate a false narrative, which has had significant repercussions. Now, they all should tender an apology."

Nirupam voiced concern about allegations of EVM tampering. He said that an announcement of Kirtikar's victory was made before the counting process was completed, implying an intentional attempt to discredit Waikar and the Shiv Sena, led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the report added. 

Per the report, Nirupam also demanded an apology from Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece 'Saamana', which published similar "false news" about the Mumbai North West seat result. He stated he would escalate the matter to the Press Council of India if necessary.