Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) based Audit of EVMs

GS-2 Mains : Polity 

Short Notes or Revision Notes 

Question : Evaluate the effectiveness of the current VVPAT audit process in ensuring transparency and election integrity.

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)

• Used to electronically record and count votes.
• Advantages:
  • Speed: Quicker counting compared to manual.
  • Accuracy: Minimize errors and invalid ballots.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Saves money in the long run.

Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

• Introduced to make polling process more transparent.
• Attached to EVM, prints a slip showing voter’s choice.
• Voter sees the slip for 7 seconds before it falls into a box.
• First introduced in 2013 (Noksen Assembly constituency, Nagaland).
• Used in 100% of polling stations since 2017 elections.

Current VVPAT Audit Process

• Established in 2018 based on Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) recommendations.
• Supreme Court mandated counting VVPAT slips of 5 randomly chosen polling stations per Assembly constituency (2019).

Criticisms of VVPAT

• Limited Impact on Election Integrity:
  • Seen as a backup mechanism, not a foolproof solution against tampering.
• Technical Glitches:
  • Instances of malfunctions disrupt voting and raise doubts about accuracy.
• Higher Cost:
  • Deployment expensive for a large democracy like India.
• Logistical Challenges:
  • Managing VVPAT deployment across vast geographical regions is difficult.
• Time-Consuming Process:
  • VVPAT verification extends voting time, leading to longer queues and potentially discouraging participation.

Suggestions for Improvement

• 100% VVPAT Counting:
  • Voters keep the slip after verification and deposit it in a separate box.
  • All VVPAT slips are then counted for complete transparency.
• Training and Capacity Building:
  • Thorough training for election officials on VVPAT usage and maintenance can minimize technical issues.
• Improved Technology and Reliability:
  • Continuous investment in research and development to improve VVPAT technology is crucial.
• Cost-Effectiveness and Sustainability:
  • Explore cost reduction methods like bulk procurement and alternative materials for paper trails.

Conclusion

The VVPAT system is a step towards transparency in Indian elections, but faces challenges. Addressing concerns about effectiveness, cost, and implementation is crucial for wider public acceptance.