In a groundbreaking move, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled multiple options for candidates seeking a re-evaluation of the voting process in the recently concluded Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. This initiative follows a Supreme Court order dated April 24, which allows runners-up to request verification of election results.
Introduction of Enhanced Election Re-Check Options
For the first time, candidates who have applied for a re-check of the voting process can select from a variety of options provided by the ECI. This includes picking electronic voting machines (EVMs) from any polling station within an Assembly segment and opting for mock polls and mock voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slip counts. The technical standard operating procedures (SOP) for these re-checks were released by the commission on Tuesday.
Eleven candidates have already applied for EVM and VVPAT memory verification. This process involves re-matching votes polled in 5% of EVMs in each of the constituencies in question.
Supreme Court Mandate and Implementation
The Supreme Court’s order on April 24 marked a significant shift in election verification protocols, empowering candidates to demand a re-evaluation of the voting process. This unprecedented move aims to ensure transparency and bolster public confidence in the electoral process. The SOP released by the ECI outlines the procedures for EVM burnt memory checking and verification. These procedures have been distributed to the Chief Electoral Officers of all states.
The ECI emphasized that the SOP allows candidates to choose from multiple options, enhancing the transparency and credibility of the verification process.
Detailed SOP and Technical Specifications
The SOP includes provisions for randomness and the enormity of test vectors, as well as an expanded choice-based approach. This replaces the controlled environment of the previous C&V (Check and Verify) process, effectively eliminating any possibility or apprehension of bias or hidden functionalities in the firmware.
Under the new SOPs, eligible candidates can select polling stations or serial numbers of machines from within their Assembly segment or constituency, up to a maximum of 5% of the EVMs used in that constituency. Candidates can also opt to mix and match EVM units from any polling station within an Assembly constituency.
Verification and Security Measures
The EVM units will undergo a self-diagnosis upon switching on, and mutual authentication when connected together. This mutual authentication ensures that unauthorized or spurious units do not connect with ECI-EVMs at any stage. Candidates can choose any sequence or pattern to cast votes for a mock poll, up to a limit of 1,400 votes.
The entire checking and verification process will be monitored via CCTV and videographed, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Summary
The Election Commission of India’s new SOPs for re-checking election results empower candidates with multiple options to ensure the accuracy and transparency of the voting process. This initiative, driven by a Supreme Court mandate, marks a significant step toward enhancing public confidence in India’s electoral system.
Key Learning Points
| Key Learning Points |
|---|
| Introduction of multiple re-check options for candidates. |
| Supreme Court’s mandate empowers runners-up to request verification. |
| SOPs ensure randomness and transparency in the verification process. |
| Maximum of 5% EVMs can be re-checked in each constituency. |
| Verification process includes self-diagnosis and mutual authentication of EVMs. |
| Monitoring of the entire process via CCTV and videography. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
