Cong veteran Moily backs EVMs, calls opposition’s protest ‘defeatist’

April 12, 2017

New Delhi, Apr 12: Senior Congress member and former Union law minister Veerappa Moily has slammed the party's decision to join the chorus against EVMs, calling it a "defeatist" mindset while arguing that the voting machines are beyond doubt.

A day after Congress joined the bloc of 16 opposition parties to petition the Election Commission against voting machines, Moily expressed dismay that his party had come under the "populist" sway of regional outfits, which were only looking for excuses for their electoral defeats.

"I am a former law minister. During my period, EVMs were introduced. And complaints also came. We got them verified. Then you know, you should not forget the history. Just because you think there is a popular wave against EVMs, we will also catch up with that," Moily said.

Asked about Congress joining other opposition parties in approaching the EC, Moily said, "We shouldn't have. None of us have been consulted... many of us were not consulted."

The difference of opinion from the senior Congress MP indicates that the party, which preceded BJP at the Centre, may have less leeway in arguing against voting machines than the regional outfits that are not burdened by history.

"EVMs, we know very well. Even during our period (UPA), we got them tested. EVM is not the reason. Just because you are defeated? Only the defeatist people will blame EVMs, otherwise there is no point," Moily said.

According to him, "local mistakes" in voting machines are reported but there is a system to address them. However, he added that "local mistakes" were different from the possibility of "abusing of the technology", referring to tampering of EVMs. "(Talk about) Abusing the technology itself isn't right. It is something I don't subscribe to," he said.

Moily dubbed as "populism" the tirade against EVMs.

He warned, "This populism will destroy your base. Congress should not go for populism. Just because somebody in some region took up the issue, I don't think you (Congress) should play second fiddle to them."

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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