Election Commission Orders: EVMs To Be Opened Only After Postal Ballot Counting Ends In Bihar

National News: The Election Commission is implementing several changes to the voting and counting process. Bihar is holding assembly elections in November, where the impact of these changes will be visible. In the past six months, the Election Commission has already made 30 changes. The latest decision on this list is that EVMs will not be opened under any circumstances until the postal ballots are counted.

The Election Commission has taken this step to improve the counting process. In recent times, the Commission has been making decisions keeping in mind the interests of the public and political leaders. Previously, the Commission had decided to include color photographs of candidates in EVMs.

Election Commission Brings Major Changes

The Election Commission has clearly stated in its order that EVMs will not be opened under any circumstances until the counting of postal ballots is complete. Typically, EVMs were opened at 8:30 a.m., even after postal ballot counting had not been completed. However, this will no longer be possible. EVMs will only be opened after postal ballot counting is complete.

The Election Commission clarified that if there are a large number of postal ballots in a particular area, more tables will be set up for them. If any problems arise, the responsibility lies with the election officials on duty. If additional staff is needed, that will also be provided. To avoid any delays in the results, postal ballots will be counted first. After these results, the counting of votes in EVMs will begin.

Who votes through postal ballot?

Postal ballots were introduced by the Election Commission to increase public awareness about voting. They are used by people who, due to their work, are unable to vote in their constituency. People over the age of 80 can also vote through postal ballots, including those with disabilities. However, prior registration is required.

Their voting is completed several days before the general public. Whenever vote counting begins in an election, postal ballots are counted first. Then, the votes recorded in EVMs are counted.

Continuous changes from the Election Commission

The Election Commission is implementing numerous changes to improve voter and candidate convenience. Over 30 changes have been made in the last six months. Recently, EVMs included color photographs and capitalized names. Furthermore, the Election Commission recently mandated Aadhaar and mobile number for voter ID. According to the Commission, applications without an Aadhaar-linked mobile number will not be accepted.

Why did the Election Commission take this decision?

The Election Commission has faced numerous serious allegations from the opposition over the past few months. Whether in Maharashtra or Haryana, the Commission has faced numerous accusations in almost every election. Recently, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged vote theft and deletion. In response, the Commission is implementing several changes. The Election Commission stated that these changes are aimed at bringing transparency to the vote counting process and eliminating the problems that arise.