The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed Delhi Police to investigate a statement made by Syed Shuja, a self-proclaimed US-based hacker, who claimed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used in Indian elections can be hacked. Shuja made these allegations in a video posted on social media, sparking a controversy.

In response to Shuja’s statement, the Election Commission filed a complaint, urging the police to register a First Information Report (FIR) against him under Section 505(1)(b) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which pertains to public mischief and spreading rumors. The ECI has accused Shuja of engaging in misinformation by falsely claiming that EVMs are vulnerable to tampering. The ECI also mentioned that Shuja, who is reportedly hiding in another country, has previously made similar claims, including during the 2019 general elections, prompting the Commission to lodge an FIR against him in Delhi.

Recently, an FIR was filed in Mumbai on November 30 against Shuja for spreading false information regarding the security of EVMs in Maharashtra elections. The investigation is currently being conducted by both Delhi and Mumbai Police, with steps being taken to identify and apprehend any individuals in India who may be in contact with or supporting Shuja’s activities. The Election Commission has emphasized that anyone involved in spreading such false claims or attempting to sensationalize EVM tampering will face strict legal consequences. "Such actions are a serious offense and those involved will not be spared," an ECI official warned.

Shuja's statement came after a video circulated online in which he claimed he could manipulate the frequency of EVMs during the Maharashtra elections. The video caused a stir on social media, and the Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) lodged a complaint, stating that Shuja's claims were "false, baseless, and unsubstantiated." The ECI has continuously reassured the public that EVMs are secure and tamper-proof. These machines are standalone devices, disconnected from any networks, including Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

The Supreme Court has also reiterated its trust in the integrity of EVMs on multiple occasions. The ECI has urged law enforcement agencies to take swift action in this matter to ensure that such misleading claims are not allowed to cause public unrest or undermine the electoral process.

False Claim Regarding EVM: A video was shared by some Social media users where a person is making false, baseless and unsubstantiated claims to hack and tamper EVMs inMaharashtra elections by isolation of EVM frequency. (https://t.co/FZ6YX6GORU)

Clarification: @ECISVEEP pic.twitter.com/OuJl33ekco

— ChiefElectoralOffice (@CEO_Maharashtra) December 1, 2024