The Election Commission (EC) is set to introduce a QR code-based photo identity card module on its ECINET platform during the counting of votes on May 4 for the assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, as well as bypolls in seven constituencies across five states.
Purpose of the New System
The initiative aims to prevent any unauthorized individuals from entering counting centres. The Commission stated that this new system, supported by a three-tier security mechanism, will be extended to all future Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.
Three-Tier Security Verification
A robust three-tier security system has been established for identity verification at counting centres. At the first and second tiers, photo identity cards issued by returning officers will be manually checked. At the innermost cordon near the counting hall, entry will only be permitted after successful verification through QR code scanning.
The QR code-based photo identity cards will apply to all individuals authorized by the EC to enter counting centres and halls, including returning officers, assistant returning officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents, and counting agents. This initiative is part of over 30 reforms introduced by the Commission in the past year, including the rollout of standardized QR code-based photo ID cards for booth-level officers (BLOs).
Media and Security Arrangements
A media centre will be established near the counting halls at each centre to facilitate authorized media personnel. Their entry will continue to be permitted based on authority letters issued by the Commission.
The Commission added that district election officers and returning officers have been directed to make necessary arrangements for the effective implementation of the system, including deploying trained personnel at designated checkpoints to ensure seamless and secure access control.
Deployment of Security Forces
A total of 93 companies of state armed police have been deployed across districts in the lead-up to counting day. Additionally, two CRPF companies will be on static duty, and 85 assault groups will be mobilized to ensure smooth proceedings.
As many as 25 companies of central armed police forces and 13 companies of state armed police will be deployed in the innermost and second security cordons of the strong room. Furthermore, 5,981 counting officers, mostly state government employees, and 2,348 micro observers from the central government will be deployed across 40 counting centres in the state on counting day.
