In the midst of Lok Sabha election polling, there’s a debate in the Supreme Court regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Some want a full check of votes on EVMs with paper slips from the VVPAT system. Suggestions to switch back to ballot voting, like in some European countries, have also been discussed.
The court cautioned against comparing India’s situation with others, noting the vast difference in population. Recently, the Election Commission clarified how the EVM system functions and its resistance to tampering. Concerns about voter trust in the system and calls for adjustments have been raised by petitioners. Now, let’s explore what an EVM is and how it’s used for voting.
What Is EVM?
An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) consists of two parts: the control unit and the balloting unit, which are linked by a cable. The control unit is held by the presiding officer, while the balloting unit is placed in a private voting area. This unit is usually shielded to protect voter privacy.
When you’re ready to vote, the polling officer at the booth confirms your identity and activates the ballot button. On the ballot unit, you’ll see the names and symbols of candidates alongside blue buttons. Simply press the button next to your chosen candidate’s name to cast your vote.
How EVMs Record Your Vote?
The polling officer’s control unit has several buttons, including one labeled ‘ballot’. Pressing this button activates a red light labeled ‘busy’, showing that the unit is ready to record a vote. Meanwhile, a green light on the voter’s ballot unit indicates it’s ready for voting. Voters simply press the button next to their chosen candidate’s name, with Braille available for visually-impaired voters.
Once a vote is cast, a beep signals completion. The control unit features an LED screen and buttons to check the total votes. After all votes are recorded, the officer seals the machine by pressing a button. On counting day, a ‘result’ button shows total votes per candidate, with a ‘clear’ option to erase data.
What Is VVPAT?
The Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) is a system that allows voters to verify if their vote was cast correctly for their chosen candidate. When a voter presses the button next to their candidate’s name, the VVPAT generates a paper slip visible for seven seconds.
This slip then drops into a secure box within the VVPAT machine. Currently, five VVPAT machines’ votes are compared with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in each Assembly segment. Some petitions in the Supreme Court are pushing for a 100% cross-check of VVPAT slips with EVM votes.
They also request keeping the seven-second display on the VVPAT for verification. Another suggestion is to give voters their paper slip, but the Election Commission is hesitant, citing concerns about voter privacy and potential misuse.
Are Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) Reliable?
The Election Commission assures that the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) system is secure and efficient. It speeds up the vote counting process, prevents tampering, and is easy to use. Its lightweight and sturdy design are vital for places where polling stations are hard to reach. Additionally, EVMs are self-diagnostic and work independently.
EVMs operate without electricity, relying on battery packs. This feature ensures voting can take place even in areas with unreliable power. Before each election, EVMs undergo a thorough check called First Level Checking (FLC), where data is cleared, and components are tested. Representatives from political parties witness this process to ensure transparency.
| Also Read: |
|---|
| Ex-Chief of Air Staff RKS Bhadauria Joins BJP Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections |
| Election Commissioner Arun Goel Resigns Prior to Lok Sabha Elections |
EVM and VVPAT FAQs
Q.1. How do Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) work?
Ans. Electronic Voting Machines consist of a control unit and a balloting unit connected by a cable. Voters select their preferred candidate by pressing a button on the balloting unit, and the vote is recorded electronically.
Q.2. What is the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system?
Ans. The VVPAT system provides a paper trail for voters to verify that their vote was correctly recorded. When a voter casts their vote on an EVM, the VVPAT generates a paper slip showing the selected candidate’s name and symbol.
Q.3. Are Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) reliable?
Ans. The Election Commission asserts that EVMs are secure, efficient, and resistant to tampering. They undergo thorough checks before each election and operate independently of electricity, ensuring reliability even in areas with unstable power supply.
Q.4. What precautions are taken to prevent tampering with EVMs?
Ans. EVMs undergo First Level Checking (FLC) before each election, where data is cleared, and components are tested. Representatives from political parties oversee this process to ensure transparency and prevent tampering.
Q.5. What is the current debate regarding the use of EVMs in elections?
Ans. There is a debate over the reliability of EVMs, with some advocating for a full cross-check of VVPAT slips with EVM votes to ensure accuracy. Concerns about voter trust and privacy have led to discussions about potential adjustments to the voting system.
