The Telangana Rashtra Samithi expressed concern over the Election Commission of India's decision to print a "None of the Above" (NOTA) option in pink colour in EVMs/ballot papers, in the forthcoming assembly polls in 5 states.
Although the ECI said that the NOTA button will be in white colour, in the next Parliamentary election, the TRS is worried that if the pink colour continues to be used in the next elections, then it might spell doom for the party.
Pink is the official colour of TRS, and it has become synonymous to the Telangana agitation.
TRS MLA K Tarakarama Rao said that the party would discuss the possible impact of the usage of pink colour for the NOTA button, and will also make a representation to the Election Commission, if required.
The party wants to ensure that the pink colour is not used in the next elections in Assembly and Parliament polls in AP.
The TRS apparently fears that the pink colour might confuse voters, who may select the NOTA button thinking it to be the colour of TRS party.
It may be mentioned that the NOTA button is being introduced for the first time in assembly elections for Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Mizoram, wherein about 11 crore voters would have the option of "not voting for any candidate" in the fray for a particular seat.
The NOTA has been introduced following the ruling of the Supreme Court.
However, the Election Commission made it clear that the candidate securing the highest number of votes would be declared elected, even if the number of voters excercising NOTA option surpasses the votes polled by the electoral contestants. (INN)