LUCKNOW, May 9 -- Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday reiterated his demand for the abolition of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), saying if developed countries can use ballot papers for elections, why should India not return to this system. He said he would ensure EVMs are removed "even if it takes a century".

Addressing a press conference at the Samajwadi Party headquarters in Lucknow, Yadav said socialists must fight a "multi-layered election mafia" to protect democracy and the Constitution. He alleged that such a network was actively influencing the electoral process and described the BJP as a divisive force that seeks to create discord in society.

"If votes are cast through paper ballots in countries like the Unit...