GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

The recent Supreme Court ruling rejecting pleas for a full count of Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips during electronic voting machine (EVM) elections has sparked debates on the integrity and transparency of India's electoral process.

1: Dimension- Supreme Court’s views and directions

• The Supreme Court issued directions mandating the sealing of the Symbol Loading Unit (SLU) after symbol loading and verification of burnt memory semi-controller in 5% of EVMs per constituency.
• Candidates can request verification of EVMs, with expenses to be borne by the requesting candidate, ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
• Citizens' Confidence: Writ petitions highlighted the significance of a complete VVPAT count in enhancing citizens' confidence in the electoral process. Despite calls for transparency, the Court's ruling prioritizes maintaining the integrity of the electoral system.

2: Dimension- Role of VVPAT Machines:

• VVPAT machines provide transparency by displaying voters' selections through paper slips, contributing to electoral transparency.
• The Supreme Court's decision underscores the importance of adhering to existing protocols and guidelines established by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

3: Dimension- Concerns Over EVMs:

• The Court's caution against releasing the source code for EVMs reflects concerns over potential misuse and tampering.
• This stance raises questions about the robustness of India's electoral infrastructure, despite the ECI's assurances of tamper-proof EVMs.

While the Supreme Court's verdict reaffirms the integrity of India's electoral process, ongoing vigilance and scrutiny are essential to address concerns related to transparency, accountability, and electoral integrity. Ensuring trust and confidence in the electoral system remains paramount for upholding the principles of democracy in India.