The Election Commission of India (ECI) is implementing a robust QR code-based photo identification system to bolster security and prevent unauthorized access at vote counting centers. This new technology-driven measure will be deployed for the upcoming counting of votes for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, as well as for by-elections across five states on May 4th. This initiative is part of the ECI’s ongoing efforts to introduce over 30 reforms aimed at strengthening election management and ensuring transparency.
Key Takeaways
- A new QR code-based photo ID system will be used for controlled access to vote counting centers.
- The system aims to eliminate unauthorized entry and enhance security.
- It will be implemented for the upcoming counting on May 4th and extended to all future elections.
- A three-tier security system is in place, with QR code scanning as the final verification layer.
- Mandatory for all authorized personnel, including staff, candidates, and agents.
Enhanced Security Measures
The ECI has established a strict three-tier security system for counting days. The initial two layers involve manual checks of photo identity cards issued by the Returning Officer. The innermost security layer, situated near the counting hall, will require successful QR code scanning and verification for entry. This ensures that only authorized individuals gain access to sensitive areas.
The QR-enabled ID cards are compulsory for everyone permitted inside the counting centers. This includes Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical teams, candidates, election agents, and counting agents.
Technology Integration and Future Plans
Integrated with the ECINET platform, the QR code system is designed to completely prevent unauthorized entry into counting venues. The ECI has stated that this technology will not be limited to the current elections but will be a permanent feature in all future Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, including by-elections.
This move is part of a broader strategy by the ECI to introduce over 30 reforms in the past year to improve election management. Standardized QR code-enabled photo ID cards for booth-level officers have also been rolled out to enhance identification and accountability.
Media Access and Official Directives
Dedicated media centers will be set up near counting halls to facilitate media coverage. Media personnel will continue to enter under existing guidelines, based on authority letters issued by the ECI.
District Election Officers and Returning Officers have been instructed to ensure the full implementation of this new system. They are required to deploy trained personnel at all checkpoints for smooth and secure access control. The ECI has emphasized that all Chief Electoral Officers and field officials must strictly adhere to these guidelines to maintain the highest standards of transparency, security, and efficiency throughout the counting process.
Counting Day Schedule
The counting process is scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM with postal ballots, followed by the counting of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at 8:30 AM. Results for each round will be declared by the respective Returning Officers and simultaneously made available on the ECINET application and the official results portal.