The Election Commission of India has introduced a QR code-based photo identification system to enhance security at vote counting centers before the crucial counting day on May 4. This new system, integrated through ECINET, will be used during the counting of votes for Assembly elections in Kerala, Assam, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, as well as by-elections in seven Assembly constituencies across five states. The Commission plans to make this technology-driven mechanism a standard feature in all future Lok Sabha and Assembly elections nationwide.
Designed to prevent unauthorized access and streamline identity verification, the system establishes a three-tier security framework at counting centers. Officials will manually verify photo identity cards issued by Returning Officers at the first two levels. The most stringent layer operates near the counting hall’s inner security ring, where entry will be permitted only after scanning QR codes on the identity cards.
The QR-enabled identification is mandatory for all authorized personnel, including Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting supervisors and staff, technical teams, candidates, election agents, and counting agents. This initiative is part of a series of around 30 reforms by the ECI in the past year to modernize and strengthen electoral processes.
To ensure media coverage without compromising security, dedicated media centers will be established near each counting venue. Journalists will be granted access based on Authority Letters issued by the Commission, following existing guidelines and protocols. District Election Officers and Returning Officers are tasked with ensuring smooth implementation of the system by deploying trained personnel at checkpoints and setting up necessary technical infrastructure at all counting locations.
As the counting day approaches, the Commission stresses strict adherence to the new measures and protocols to enhance transparency, efficiency, and integrity in the counting process amid the heightened political and public interest.
