📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
In a recent development, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has received applications for verification of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units’ burnt memory from candidates in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This marks the first instance of such requests being made since a Supreme Court order in April allowed runners-up to seek verification. The applications have come from a total of 11 seats, with candidates from different political parties submitting their requests. The ECI has forwarded these applications to the chief electoral officers (CEOs) for further action. It is stated that the process of checking and verification can be initiated within four weeks of the verification of the status of Election Petitions filed in the respective constituencies.
The Supreme Court had earlier provided the second and third place candidates the option to seek verification of the burnt memories of EVMs and VVPAT units. The candidates who wish to apply for verification must do so within a specified period and deposit a certain amount per EVM for the process to commence. The applications have been submitted from various constituencies, covering multiple states across the country.
Recently, a political controversy emerged over allegations of EVM hacking in the Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat. The issue gained attention after a report suggested that a relative of the winning candidate was found using a mobile phone connected to an EVM during the vote counting process. This incident has sparked debates and discussions surrounding the transparency and accountability of the electoral process. Notably, prominent figures including Elon Musk have weighed in on the matter, calling for the elimination of electronic voting machines.
The debate around the reliability of EVMs has been ongoing, with some expressing concerns about potential vulnerabilities and the need for a more secure voting system. While the Supreme Court has refrained from passing specific rulings based solely on hacking allegations, it has emphasized the importance of ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. As the ECI continues to address the applications for EVM verification, the outcomes of these efforts will be closely monitored by stakeholders and the public alike.
