Have EVMs Been Proven Tamper-Proof Again After Verification in Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has confirmed the tamper-proof status of EVMs in Maharashtra after an extensive verification process. This affirmation comes in response to concerns raised by candidates in the recent elections, reinforcing the reliability of the electoral system. Discover how this verification process unfolded and its implications for future elections.
Key Takeaways
- EVMs reaffirmed as tamper-proof after verification.
- Verification process involved 10 Assembly constituencies.
- No discrepancies found between EVM and VVPAT results.
- Conducted in the presence of candidates and their representatives.
- Diagnostic tests were successfully passed by all machines.
New Delhi, July 31 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has once again confirmed the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), labeling them tamper-proof after an extensive checking and verification (C&V) process carried out in Maharashtra.
The initiative was launched in response to requests from 10 candidates who participated in the 2024 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections.
As per the ECI's press release issued on Thursday, the Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra conducted the C&V procedure across 10 Assembly constituencies.
The exercise included 48 Ballot Units (BUs), 31 Control Units (CUs), and 31 Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). The verification established that all machines were functioning correctly and no discrepancies were detected between the EVM outcomes and VVPAT slips.
"This exercise reaffirms that the EVMs are tamper-proof," emphasized the election commission.
The tests were conducted in the presence of eight out of the 10 candidates, comprising eight applicants who were unsuccessful and who had requested the C&V along with other candidates or their representatives.
Diagnostic assessments for the burnt memory and microcontroller were performed in constituencies such as 147-Kopri-Pachpakhadi, 148-Thane, 211-Khadakwasala, and 229-Majalgaon.
Certified engineers from ECIL, the manufacturer of the machines, confirmed that all devices successfully passed the tests. In constituencies like 188-Panel, 192-Panel (Raigad district), 80-Arni (Yavatmal district), 119-Yevla (Nashik district), 271-Chandgad, and 276-Kolhapur North (both in Kolhapur district), diagnostic tests were followed by mock elections.
The results from the control units aligned perfectly with VVPAT slip counts, further validating the system's dependability.
“Following the diagnostic evaluation, the authorized engineers from the manufacturer (ECIL) confirmed that all machines met the diagnostic standards,” stated the poll panel.
“Subsequently, a mock election was conducted on the machines at the candidates' request. The outcomes from the EVM (from Control Unit) were cross-verified with the VVPAT slip counts, and no discrepancies were identified,” it added.
Point of View
The reaffirmation of EVMs as tamper-proof is a significant development. The Election Commission's thorough verification process underscores its commitment to transparency and fairness in elections. As we navigate the complexities of electoral technology, maintaining public trust is essential for the health of our democracy.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the EVM verification process?
The EVM verification process aims to ensure the integrity and reliability of Electronic Voting Machines, confirming they function correctly and produce accurate results.
Who conducted the verification of EVMs in Maharashtra?
The verification was conducted by the Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra in collaboration with authorized engineers from ECIL, the manufacturer of the machines.
What were the results of the EVM verification?
The verification confirmed that all machines were in proper working condition, with no mismatches between EVM results and VVPAT slips.
How many constituencies were involved in the EVM verification?
The verification process spanned across 10 Assembly constituencies in Maharashtra.
What is the role of VVPAT in the EVM verification process?
VVPAT serves as a paper trail to verify the votes cast on EVMs, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the electoral process.
