Maharashtra EVMs Declared Tamper-Proof After Tests
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has confirmed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used during the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections are fully tamper-proof. A detailed verification process found zero mismatches between electronic vote counts and paper audit records.
No Mismatch in EVM and VVPAT Records
The ECI conducted thorough checks in 10 constituencies across the state. The verification covered 48 Ballot Units, 31 Control Units, and 31 VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) machines. In each case, the electronic result matched the printed VVPAT slips perfectly, confirming 100% accuracy.
Candidates Had Requested Verification
The audits were carried out following official requests by 10 losing candidates. The ECI examined the internal memory of the EVMs and conducted mock polls under strict supervision by technical teams. All tests confirmed that the machines functioned without any error or tampering.
Commission Reaffirms System Security
Election officials emphasized that these results reaffirm the integrity of India’s electronic voting system. The Commission stated that the combination of EVMs and VVPATs, along with randomization and pre-election checks, ensures a secure and transparent voting process.
Response to Longstanding Doubts
The move comes amid recurring concerns and allegations from various quarters about potential manipulation of voting machines. While the Supreme Court has already upheld the validity of EVMs, the Commission said such audits are essential to maintaining public trust in the electoral system.
More Verifications on the Way
The ECI is now working to process similar verification requests from other constituencies. Officials have said that ongoing transparency and regular system checks will remain a cornerstone of the Commission’s operations to protect democratic integrity.
