Indian EVMs Are Standalone Devices Without Internet or Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reaffirmed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used in Indian elections are completely offline, standalone systems that are neither connected to the internet nor to any wireless networks like Wi-Fi. This statement comes in light of renewed public discourse and concerns raised over the security and integrity of India’s electoral process.
According to the ECI, Indian EVMs are designed to function independently without any form of external connectivity. They are battery-operated and do not have hardware or software features that could facilitate remote access or online communication. This design architecture effectively insulates the machines from hacking or tampering attempts through digital means.
In addition to being isolated from the internet, Indian elections now feature the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system alongside EVMs. The VVPAT system allows voters to verify their vote by generating a physical slip that shows the selected candidate’s name and symbol. This slip is visible to the voter for seven seconds before being automatically cut and stored in a sealed box for potential cross-verification and audit.
The ECI has also emphasized its strict adherence to procedures and multiple levels of verification, which include mock polling, sealing protocols, and candidate participation in the storage and transportation of machines. These measures are designed to further boost transparency and eliminate doubts around electoral manipulation.
This strong reaffirmation of the EVM’s security features underscores the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding India’s democratic process. The ECI continues to engage with stakeholders to dispel misinformation and assure the public that the integrity of the vote remains uncompromised.
