Remove poll symbol from ballot papers, EVMs: Anna Hazare

Mumbai: Social activist Anna Hazare on Wednesday asked the Election Commission of India to remove poll symbol from the ballot papers and EVMs as part of poll reforms.

Addressing a press conference at his village Ralegan Siddhi in Ahmednagar district, Hazare said poll symbol on ballot paper was needed for benefit of illiterate voters who could not read names of the candidates.

"However, now that the Election Commission has decided to print photograph of candidates on electronic voting machines and ballot papers, there is no need to have poll symbol also on the ballot paper," Hazare said.

Hazare said he has written to the Chief election Commissioner, asking him to ensure that voters are not get confused with the photo as well as poll symbol on the ballot papers and EVMs.

Removing poll symbol will lead to polls being conducted in a free and fair manner, the social activist said.

Having a poll symbol on ballot paper will lead to 'unfair advantage' to some, Hazare said without naming any political party.

Hazare said he has decided to launch a countrywide campaign to bring in poll reforms in the interests of the common man.