Bihar Polls: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced significant upgrades to Electronic Voting Machine ballot papers, introducing color candidate photographs for the first time to enhance voter identification and streamline the electoral process.
Major Visual Enhancements to be seen in EVI amid Bihar Polls
The traditionally black-and-white EVM ballot papers will now feature color photographs of candidates, with each candidate’s face occupying three-fourths of the allocated photo space to ensure maximum visibility and easier voter identification.
Serial numbers for candidates and the NOTA (None of the Above) option will be displayed more prominently using international Indian numerals in bold fonts for improved clarity. All candidate names will be printed in larger, uniform fonts to maintain consistency and enhance readability across ballot papers.
Quality Improvements
Beyond visual changes, the ECI has mandated higher-quality paper for ballot printing. Assembly election ballot papers will be printed on pink paper, marking another departure from previous standards.
These modifications represent part of 28 comprehensive changes implemented by the Election Commission over the past six months, aimed at strengthening electoral processes and improving voting convenience for citizens nationwide.
The upgraded EVM ballot papers will debut in upcoming elections, beginning with Bihar state elections, providing the first practical test of these voter-friendly innovations.
Understanding EVM Technology
Electronic Voting Machines consist of two interconnected units: the control unit operated by the presiding officer (polling officer) and the balloting unit positioned in the voting compartment where citizens cast their votes.
The voting process involves identity verification by the polling officer, who then activates the ballot button enabling the voter to proceed. The balloting unit displays candidate names and symbols alongside blue buttons, requiring voters to press the button corresponding to their chosen candidate.
Broader Electoral Reforms
These EVM enhancements form part of the Election Commission’s broader initiative to modernize India’s electoral infrastructure. The changes address long-standing concerns about voter confusion and misidentification, particularly in constituencies with multiple candidates bearing similar names or symbols.
The color photograph introduction represents a significant technological advancement in Indian electoral machinery, potentially reducing invalid votes and enhancing democratic participation through clearer candidate identification systems.
The reforms demonstrate the ECI’s commitment to maintaining India’s position as a leader in electoral technology and democratic governance.
