Understanding the Voting Process and Results in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), as reliable and efficient tools for casting votes, have revolutionized the electoral process. EVMs are touch-screen based devices that offer a secure, transparent, and user-friendly experience. This article delves into the intricacies of the voting process, including the unique features of these machines and the detailed steps involved in vote counting.

How EVMs Work

EVMs, often resembling game controllers, provide a comprehensive and accessible voting experience. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Touch Screen Interface: EVM users navigate through the interface using a touch screen. This interface may also include an optional game controller for users who prefer this mode of interaction. Selection of Candidates: For each contest, voters make their choices. They confirm their selections before moving on to the next contest. Change of Choices: Voters have the flexibility to change their choices if they wish, after a review of the selections made. Printing Ballot: Once satisfied with their choices, voters can select the PRINT icon, whereupon their complete ballot is printed and then cast. Ballot Casting: After printing, voters proceed to the tabulator for ballot casting. They hear a thunk and a ding, and the total count on the screen increments by one.

Security and Usability of EVMs

EVMs are designed with a range of features to ensure both user-friendliness and robust security. They help in maintaining transparency, security, cost-effectiveness, and speed in electoral processes. These machines provide accessibility for voters with disabilities, further emphasizing their implementation in modern democracies.

Counting Day: The Process and Details

Counting in EVM-based elections follows a detailed and methodical process. Here’s what to expect:

Timing and Start of Counting

Counting of votes beings at 8 AM, with a crucial distinction:

Postal Ballots: Votes from postal ballots are counted first. EVM Votes: Simultaneously, EVM votes are also counted starting from 8 AM. VVPAT Counts: VVPAT (Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail) slips, generated by EVMs, are counted last.

Protected Voting Machines

EVMs and VVPATs are carefully safeguarded after voting hours:

Storing: Security Cover - All EVMs and VVPATs are stored under security cover in designated strongrooms after the polls close. Sealing: These machines are sealed and guarded round-the-clock until the counting day. Counting Day Coordination: Counting agents, candidates, and EC Observers must be present to open the machines. Transparency: Contesting candidates have the right to witness the counting process.

Verification and Counting

On the counting day, the address tags, seals, and serial numbers of the EVMs are verified. The ballot unit is then switched on, and the result command is keyed in to obtain results per machine:

Simultaneous Counting: Counting processes are conducted in multiple tables within each hall. Re-Sealing: Machines are resealed after one round of counting. VVPAT Verification: Paper slips from VVPATs are counted last, a unique aspect in this election, aligning EVM and VVPAT counts.

Tallying Process and Delays

The voltage tallying process is elaborate and time-consuming:

Sequential Counting: Each assembly segment may take over five hours to complete counting, due to sequential counting of EVMs and VVPAT slips. SC Order Amplifies Delay: The April 8 Supreme Court order necessitated the verification of up to five EVMs per assembly segment, increasing the time required. Data Entry Protocol: The Election Commission is emphasizing that round-wise data must be entered into its Suvidha application, ensuring accuracy. Delays in Terms of Rounds: For instance, in Delhi, where 70 assembly constituencies are involved, the process will be significantly delayed by random selection of 200 polling stations.

Tracking Results

Real-time monitoring of results includes:

Election Commission Portal: Results are disseminated from 8 AM onwards through the official portal. Voter Helpline App: Real-time trends can be followed through this app. News Channels: Live updates from news channels are also a reliable source.

Announcement of New Lok Sabha

Once all results are declared, the Election Commission will:

Constitute New Lok Sabha: Once all parliamentary constituency results are announced, the new Lok Sabha will be formed by notifying the elected members in the official gazette. Highest Voter Turnout: Over 67% of India's almost 91 crore voters participated, marking the highest voter turnout in independent parliamentary elections.

Ensuring the transparency and smoothness of the electoral process, every step is meticulously recorded, with multiple layers of verification and oversight.

Thanks for your interest in understanding how EVMs work and the intricacies of the electoral counting process.