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ECI Introduces QR Code IDs for Counting Centres to Boost Security

The Election Commission of India has introduced a QR code-based Photo Identity Card module on ECINET for counting centres. This system will be implemented for the May 4 counting of Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry. A three-tier security mechanism includes manual checks at first two tiers and QR code verification at the innermost cordon. The initiative aims to eliminate unauthorised entry and ensure transparent, secure counting proceedings.

Key Points: QR Code IDs for Counting Centres: ECI's New Security Move

  • QR code-based photo ID cards introduced for counting centres
  • Three-tier security mechanism for identity verification
  • Applicable for Assembly polls in Assam, Kerala, TN, WB, Puducherry
  • System to be extended to all future general and bye-elections
2 min read

Assembly polls vote counting day: ECI introduces QR code-based IDs for officials, authorised persons at centres

ECI introduces QR code-based photo ID cards for officials at counting centres for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, TN, WB, Puducherry to prevent unauthorised entry.

"This initiative is in continuation of the series of more than 30 measures taken by the ECI over the past one year. - Deputy Director P. Pawan"

New Delhi, April 30

Ahead of the counting of votes of ongoing Assembly elections on May 4, the Election Commission of India on Thursday introduced a QR code-based Photo Identity Card module on ECINET to eliminate entry of unauthorised persons into counting centres, an official said.

Starting with the counting for the general elections to the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry and the bye-elections in seven Assembly constituencies of five states, the system will be extended to all future general and bye-elections to Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, the ECI said in a statement.

"This initiative is in continuation of the series of more than 30 measures taken by the ECI over the past one year, which included introduction of standardised QR Code based photo ID Cards for booth level officers," Deputy Director P. Pawan said in a statement.

"A three-tier security mechanism has been prescribed for verification of identity at counting centres. At the first and second tiers, photo identity cards issued by the Returning Officer will be checked manually," it added.

"At the third and innermost security cordon near the counting hall, entry would be permitted only after successful verification through QR code scanning," it said.

The new QR code-based photo identity cards will be applicable for the categories of persons authorised by the ECI to enter counting centres and halls, which include Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents and counting agents, among others.

"District Election Officers and Returning Officers have been directed to make all necessary arrangements for the effective implementation of this system, including deployment of trained personnel at designated checkpoints to ensure seamless and secure access control," the statement said.

"All Chief Electoral Officers, District Election Officers, Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers have been directed to ensure strict compliance with these instructions for transparency, security and efficiency in the counting process," the statement added.

"For facilitating media coverage of the counting proceedings, a media centre will be set up near the counting halls in each counting centre for the facilitation," the statement said.

Entry of media persons will continue to be permitted based on authority letters issued by ECI, it added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, some transparency! As a resident of West Bengal, I've always been skeptical about counting centres. This QR system might restore some faith. Just wish they had done this earlier for the whole polling process. Better late than never, I guess.
V
Vikram M
ECI is improving step by step. But I hope media access is truly independent, not just controlled access. Also, what about internet connectivity in rural counting centres? Without proper network, QR scanning might fail. Hope they have backup plans. 🙏
A
Ananya R
As someone who worked as counting agent last election, I can say this is much needed. We had issues with unauthorized people walking in. But ECI should also focus on training staff properly - many older officials struggle with new tech. Digital India is great, but implementation matters!
R
Rohit P
Love the idea but skeptical about execution. Last time they introduced new EVM verification system, there were glitches. Hope ECI has tested QR system thoroughly. Also, what about candidates who don't have smartphones? Not everyone is tech-savvy. 🤔
K
Kavya N
A good step forward for election integrity. But I'm more interested in counting process transparency itself. QR codes for entry is superficial if actual counting isn't monitored properly. Still, appreciate ECI's efforts. Let's hope for peaceful counting day across all states!
S
Siddharth

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