Ahead of the vote counting on May 4 for ongoing Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched a QR code-based Photo Identity Card system on ECINET to prevent unauthorized access to counting centers. This new system will first be used for the general elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, along with bye-elections in seven Assembly constituencies across five states.
Deputy Director P. Pawan stated that this initiative is part of a series of measures by the ECI, including the introduction of standardized QR Code-based photo ID Cards for booth level officers over the past year. The ECI has implemented a three-tier security process for identity verification at counting centers, with manual checks of photo identity cards at the first and second tiers, followed by entry permitted only after successful QR code scanning at the third tier near the counting hall.
The new QR code-based photo identity cards are designated for authorized personnel like Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents, and counting agents. The ECI has instructed District Election Officers and Returning Officers to ensure the effective implementation of this system, including deploying trained personnel at checkpoints for secure access control.
To enhance media coverage during the counting process, a media center will be established near the counting halls at each center. Media personnel will be allowed entry based on authority letters issued by the ECI to ensure transparency, security, and efficiency in the counting process.
