ECI Implements New Rules for Handling Election Machines Following SC Directive

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced new regulations for the management and storage of election machines in response to a directive from the Supreme Court issued on April 26. This directive mandates changes in the handling of Symbol Loading Units (SLUs), which are instrumental in inputting candidates’ names and symbols into the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines.

Key Points:

1. Sealing and Storage of SLUs: In compliance with the Supreme Court’s order, SLUs must now be sealed and securely stored along with electronic voting machines (EVMs) for a period of 45 days following the announcement of election results. Previously, SLUs were provided to local election officials by engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) or the ECI shortly before voting and were returned the day after the elections.
2. Implementation Date: The new protocols, mandated by the Supreme Court, came into effect on May 1. State Chief Electoral Officers have been directed to make necessary arrangements for the safe handling and storage of SLUs alongside EVMs. Each assembly constituency will have two to four designated containers for storing SLUs, depending on their requirements.
3. Legal Provisions: The decision to extend the storage duration of SLUs and other election machines facilitates the process of verifying election results. Candidates who finish second or third in the elections have the opportunity to request the checking of micro-controllers in EVMs. This extended storage period of 45 days allows for legal challenges to be addressed, during which courts may scrutinize the machines and paper trails.

This significant development underscores the ECI’s commitment to upholding transparency and integrity in the electoral process. By aligning with the Supreme Court’s directives, the ECI aims to enhance accountability and facilitate a fair and impartial electoral framework. The implementation of these new rules reflects a proactive approach towards addressing concerns related to election integrity and ensuring public trust in the electoral process.