The Election Commission has decided to include color photographs of candidates and clear serial numbers on EVMs for the Bihar elections. This will help voters easily identify candidates. This experiment will be implemented across India later.
Bihar Election 2025: The Election Commission has taken a significant decision to enhance voter convenience and transparency in the election process. Under an experiment commencing with the Bihar Assembly elections, the Commission has directed the inclusion of color photographs of candidates on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and ballot papers. This will enable voters to easily identify their preferred candidate, making the voting process more simplified and transparent.
New Guidelines to be Implemented Before Elections in Bihar
Assembly elections are due in Bihar in the coming weeks. Although the Election Commission has not yet announced the polling dates, this new decision will bring about a noticeable change for both voters and political parties in their preparations. The Commission has clarified that this new guideline is being initiated in Bihar, and after successful testing, it will be implemented in other states across the country.
What Changes Will Be Made to EVMs and Ballot Papers
According to the new guidelines, the candidate's photograph on the ballot paper will now be in color and clear. The candidate's face will occupy three-fourths of the ballot paper space. Additionally, the serial number will be given greater prominence than before. This will allow voters to easily identify the candidate and their corresponding number.
This change will not only simplify the voting process but also enhance the transparency and credibility of the elections. The Commission states that the aim of this initiative is to protect voters from confusion and strengthen the democratic process.
Decision Comes Amidst SIR Controversy
There had already been considerable debate in Bihar regarding SIR (Serial Number Issue). Many voters and political parties had raised questions about the difficulty in identifying serial numbers and candidates on old ballots. Under the new directives, not only will the photograph be in color, but the serial number will also be clear. This will enable voters to easily identify the election symbol and the candidate's name.
Why Candidate Photos Are Important
Voters often identify candidates by their faces and election symbols. Previously, photographs on ballot papers were in black and white, which created difficulties when viewed from a distance. Color photographs will provide visual clarity to voters, making the voting process smoother.
Election Commission officials state that this initiative is a significant step towards strengthening democracy. It will improve the voter's voting experience and make the election process more impartial.
What is an EVM and How Does It Work
An EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) is an electronic device that simplifies and secures the voting process. Voters cast their vote by pressing the button next to their preferred candidate. This vote is recorded in the machine and remains secure instantly.
EVMs were first used in India nationwide during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. Since then, EVMs have played a crucial role in making elections simpler, faster, and more secure.
Ease in the Election Process Expected
This new initiative by the Election Commission is an effort to enhance voter convenience and strengthen the democratic process. With color photographs and clear serial numbers, voters will be able to identify and cast their votes easily. This will reduce the possibility of erroneous voting or confusion in elections. The Commission has also stated that after the success of this initiative in Bihar, it will be implemented in other states. This will make the voting process more reliable and transparent across the entire country.
