TAG: GS 2: POLITY
THE CONTEXT: The Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system has emerged as a crucial component in ensuring the transparency and integrity of the electoral process.
EXPLANATION:
- However, debates persist regarding the extent of verification required for VVPAT slips, with political parties and election authorities offering differing perspectives.
Origins and Functionality of VVPAT:
- The inception of VVPAT can be traced back to 2010 when the Election Commission of India (ECI) initiated discussions with political parties to enhance the transparency of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
- The VVPAT system, attached to the ballot unit of EVMs, provides voters with a paper slip displaying their chosen candidate’s details.
- This slip serves as a tangible record of the vote cast, offering voters and political parties an additional layer of confidence in the electoral process.
- The demand for increased verification of VVPAT slips stems from the need to ensure the accuracy and fairness of election results.
- Political parties, civil society organizations, and electoral watchdogs advocate for heightened scrutiny of VVPAT slips to mitigate concerns over potential tampering or malfunctioning of EVMs.
- Verification of VVPAT slips is perceived as a safeguard against electoral malpractices, enhancing public trust in the democratic process.
Evolution of Verification Norms:
- Initially, the ECI mandated the counting of VVPAT slips from one randomly selected polling station per Assembly constituency.
- However, following legal challenges and public pressure, the Supreme Court intervened, directing the ECI to increase the number of polling stations subject to VVPAT verification to five per Assembly seat.
- This adjustment was made to enhance the robustness of the verification process and address concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the integrity of elections.
Challenges and Considerations for Expanded Verification:
- Despite calls for increased verification, the ECI has expressed reservations regarding the feasibility and practicality of counting a higher percentage of VVPAT slips.
- Infrastructure constraints, manpower shortages, and logistical challenges pose hurdles to scaling up VVPAT verification efforts.
- The ECI emphasizes the need to balance transparency with efficiency, highlighting the potential delays and resource implications associated with broader verification mandates.
Opposition’s Call for Widened Verification:
- Opposition parties advocate for the verification of a larger percentage, ranging from 50% to 100%, of VVPAT slips to bolster electoral transparency and accountability.
- The demand for heightened scrutiny reflects concerns over the accuracy and reliability of EVMs, particularly in light of past controversies and legal disputes.
- Opposition alliances have presented resolutions urging the ECI to prioritize electoral integrity by expanding VVPAT verification protocols.