Supreme Court rejects pleas for complete EVM-VVPAT verification: Ensuring electoral integrity

The Supreme Court has turned down all requests to verify votes cast via Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips. Here's a simplified summary of the key points:

Plea Rejection

The court dismissed petitions demanding a complete verification of EVM votes with VVPAT slips and a return to using ballot papers for elections. Justice Sanjiv Khanna stated that all pleas regarding the reintroduction of ballot papers were rejected.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) was given two directives by the bench. Firstly, to seal the Symbol Loading Unit (SLU) after the symbol loading process, keeping it stored for at least 45 days. Secondly, to check the burnt memory in the microcontroller EVM after results declaration, upon request by candidates.

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Consideration of electronic machines

Additionally, the court urged the ECI to consider using an electronic machine for counting paper slips alongside symbols. Justice Khanna suggested including a barcode for each party along with the symbol.

The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of trust in the democratic process. While addressing concerns about EVM tampering, it stressed the need for collaboration and trust among all stakeholders.

The rejection of pleas for complete VVPAT verification and the continuation of EVM usage will likely impact future elections. The focus remains on maintaining transparency and confidence in the electoral system.

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