Supreme Court-Directed EVM Tampering Checks: Options for Aggrieved Candidates

Aggrieved candidates who suspect EVM tampering post-Lok Sabha and assembly elections can now choose from various verification options. The Election Commission offers the selection of EVMs from polling stations within an assembly segment and mock polls. The Supreme Court allows such checks, rejecting a return to the paper ballot system.

Aggrieved candidates suspecting tampering of EVMs after Lok Sabha and assembly election results have been provided several verification options, as detailed by the Election Commission.

According to an SOP issued by the Election Commission, candidates who came in second and third can choose various random tests to determine tampering claims.

The EC received eight applications, including submissions from BJP and Congress candidates, to verify potential tampering in the micro-controller chips embedded in EVMs post-June 4 election results.

On April 26, the Supreme Court termed EVM manipulation suspicions as 'unfounded' but allowed unsuccessful candidates to seek EVM chip verification.

Candidates can select specific polling stations or machine serial numbers to scrutinize up to five percent of EVMs in an assembly segment. The self-diagnosis and mutual authentication processes will confirm the units' legitimacy.