Know the EVM: The Pros & Cons!

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have become the backbone of modern elections in many democracies, including India. They were first introduced in Indian elections in 2000 and are in use since then for all the state and parliamentary elections. Yet, they remain surrounded by intrigue and debate. Here’s a deep dive into the key features that demystify EVMs and their role in ensuring free and fair elections.

EVM

An EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) is an electronic device designed to record votes during an election, replacing traditional paper ballots. EVMs consist of two units: the Control Unit, operated by the polling officer, and the Ballot Unit, used by voters to cast their votes by pressing a button corresponding to their choice.

One of the most persistent allegations regarding EVMs is the possibility of pre-programmed chips being manipulated to favor a particular political party. While this concern is often raised during contentious elections, it is important to understand the mechanics of EVMs and the safeguards in place to assess the validity of such claims.

Pre-Programmed Chips Favoring a Party

EVMs are often accused of “Pre-Programmed Chips Favoring a Party". This allegation suggests that the chips embedded in EVMs could be tampered with or pre-programmed to alter the outcome of an election. For example, a maliciously programmed chip might count every third or fourth vote for a certain party, irrespective of the actual button pressed by the voter.

Critics argue that the proprietary nature of chip programming and the lack of third-party audits make it difficult to verify if the chips are neutral. Since the chips are programmed and manufactured by specific entities, detractors claim there is a possibility of collusion between manufacturers and political stakeholders. Some fear that chips, despite being claimed as one-time programmable (OTP), could be secretly altered to influence the counting process.

The Truth

While the concern is theoretically possible, the practical implementation of pre-programmed chips favoring a party faces several hurdles.

To manipulate elections on a large scale, widespread collusion across manufacturers, election officials, and ground staff would be necessary, which is highly unlikely. EVMs are allocated to polling stations through a double-randomization process. This ensures that even if a tampered EVM exists, it cannot be strategically placed to benefit a specific party. The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) adds a layer of transparency by generating a paper trail for each vote, allowing voters to verify their choice instantly. Discrepancies can be identified and addressed during audits or recounts. EVMs are kept under strict security before and after polling, monitored by CCTV and guarded by security personnel, making unauthorized access nearly impossible.

Indian EVMs do not have any wireless components, including no internet connectivity, Bluetooth, or external ports. They are designed to be "air-gapped," meaning they are physically isolated from any network, making them immune to remote hacking attempts.  

Replacement with Duplicate Machines

This scenario assumes that unauthorized individuals could intercept the legitimate EVMs during storage, transportation, or deployment and replace them with pre-programmed machines that alter votes. Critics argue that despite security protocols, physical access to machines could be exploited by insiders to switch original EVMs with duplicates.

Transporting EVMs to remote polling stations presents vulnerabilities that could be exploited for replacement. A breach in the chain of custody during handovers between officials might provide an opportunity for swapping machines.

The Truth

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instituted rigorous procedures to ensure the authenticity and security of EVMs throughout the election process.

Each EVM and its components (Control Unit, Ballot Unit, and VVPAT) have unique serial numbers, which are recorded and verified at multiple stages. Any mismatch is immediately flagged. EVMs are randomized twice; First, at the district level to allocate machines to constituencies. Second, at the constituency level to assign them to specific polling stations. This reduces the chances of targeted tampering or replacement.

After preparation, EVMs are sealed with tamper-evident seals. Any attempt to open or replace a machine would leave visible evidence. EVMs are stored in designated strong rooms under 24/7 surveillance, monitored by CCTV cameras and guarded by armed personnel. Representatives of political parties often participate in sealing and monitoring the storage facilities.

Before the actual polling begins, mock polls are conducted at polling stations in the presence of polling agents. The results are verified to ensure the machines are functioning correctly. The transportation and handover of EVMs are meticulously documented, and representatives of political parties can observe these processes.

Multiple Votes Fraud
Multiple votes fraud refers to a situation where a single individual casts multiple ballots in an election, thereby violating the principle of "one person, one vote." This type of fraud undermines electoral fairness and raises questions about the integrity of voting systems. Allegations of such fraud have been a recurring concern in many democracies, including India, where electronic voting machines (EVMs) are widely used.

The Truth

To address and prevent multiple votes fraud, electoral bodies implement a variety of measures.

Voter IDs and photographs are verified before allowing individuals to cast their vote.

In India, Aadhaar integration in the voting process has enhanced the verification system.

After voting, an indelible ink mark is applied to a voter's finger, making it immediately visible and preventing repeat voting. Also, EVMs are designed to register only one vote per person per polling session. The machine locks automatically after a vote is cast, and can only be unlocked by the presiding officer.

By harnessing advanced technology, enhancing transparency, and maintaining vigilant oversight, electoral bodies can foster public confidence in the voting process. Open communication and active stakeholder engagement play a critical role in addressing fraud allegations with clarity and efficiency. Sustained innovation, coupled with transparency and collaborative participation, remains essential for building and preserving trust in the integrity of the electoral system.