Understanding the Purpose of the ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ Sticker
In the Indian electoral system, the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) has been a subject of significant interest and debate. One aspect that has garnered attention is the presence of a ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker on certain EVMs. This sticker serves a crucial purpose in maintaining the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
Ensuring Proper Training and Awareness
The ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker is used to identify EVMs that are specifically designated for training and awareness purposes. According to the ‘Manual on Electronic Voting Machine And VVPAT’ (2020) document, these stickered EVMs are used to:
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Train Election Officials: The training of election officials, including Presiding Officers and Polling Officers, is essential to ensure they are well-versed in the proper handling and operation of EVMs. The ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ stickers help identify the machines used for this purpose.
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Conduct Voter Awareness Campaigns: The Election Commission of India (ECI) organizes various voter awareness campaigns to educate the public about the electoral process, including the proper use of EVMs. The ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ stickers are used on the machines employed during these campaigns.
By clearly marking the EVMs used for training and awareness, the ECI ensures that these machines are not confused with the ones used for actual voting during the elections.
Maintaining Transparency and Accountability
The presence of the ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker also plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The ECI’s guidelines stipulate the following:
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Involvement of Political Parties: The ECI mandates that political parties, both national and state-recognized, are invited to witness the process of opening the warehouse, taking out the EVMs/VVPATs for training and awareness, and re-sealing the warehouse. This ensures that the political parties are aware of the movements and usage of these machines.
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Sharing of Information: The ECI also requires that the list of EVMs and VVPATs used for training and awareness be shared with the recognized national and state political parties. This information is also to be shared with the candidates and their agents once they are finalized.
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Videography of the Process: The entire process of opening the warehouse, taking out the EVMs/VVPATs, and re-sealing the warehouse is to be videographed. This documentation serves as an additional layer of transparency.
By adhering to these guidelines, the ECI aims to address any concerns or doubts that may arise regarding the movement and use of EVMs, particularly in the context of training and awareness activities.
Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Compliance
In some instances, such as the incident in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, during the 2022 state assembly elections, the movement of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’ has raised questions and concerns. However, the ECI and local authorities have provided clarifications to address these issues.
The Varanasi Incident and the ECI’s Response
In the Varanasi incident, a video surfaced showing a vehicle transporting EVMs with the ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker. This led to allegations that the authorities were attempting to tamper with the polled EVMs. However, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Uttar Pradesh and the Varanasi District Magistrate (DM) clarified that the EVMs being transported were indeed for training purposes, as per the ECI’s guidelines.
The ECI’s ‘Manual on Electronic Voting Machine And VVPAT’ (2019) document outlines the specific protocols to be followed for the movement and use of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’. These include:
- Inviting Political Parties: The manual states that political parties should be invited to witness the process of opening the warehouse, taking out the EVMs/VVPATs, and re-sealing the warehouse.
- Sharing the List: The list of EVMs and VVPATs used for training and awareness must be shared with the recognized national and state political parties, as well as with the candidates and their agents.
- Videography of the Process: The entire process is to be videographed to maintain a record of the activities.
In the Varanasi incident, the authorities acknowledged that there was a lapse in following the protocol, as the candidates were not informed about the movement of the ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’. However, they emphasized that it was impossible to tamper with the polled EVMs, as the integrity of the electoral process was maintained.
Ensuring Compliance and Transparency
The ECI has taken steps to ensure that the protocols for the handling and movement of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’ are strictly followed. This includes:
- Strengthening Guidelines: The ECI has reiterated the existing guidelines and emphasized the importance of strict compliance by all election officials.
- Monitoring and Oversight: The ECI has increased its monitoring and oversight of the entire process, including the movement and usage of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’.
- Accountability Measures: The ECI has taken disciplinary action against officials found negligent in following the protocols, as seen in the Varanasi incident where the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) was suspended for negligence in EVM transportation.
These measures aim to address any concerns and ensure that the electoral process remains transparent, accountable, and aligned with the ECI’s commitment to upholding the integrity of India’s democracy.
The Importance of Voter Awareness and Participation
The use of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’ is not just about ensuring the proper handling of the machines but also about promoting voter awareness and participation. The ECI’s efforts in this regard are crucial, as an informed and engaged electorate is the foundation of a vibrant democracy.
Empowering Voters through Awareness Campaigns
The ECI’s voter awareness campaigns, which utilize the ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’, play a vital role in educating the public about the electoral process. These campaigns cover topics such as:
- How to use the EVM correctly
- Understanding the security features of EVMs
- Exercising the right to vote and making informed choices
- Importance of active participation in the electoral process
By conducting these awareness sessions, the ECI aims to empower citizens, build trust in the electoral system, and encourage greater voter turnout.
Fostering Civic Engagement and Transparency
The presence of the ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker and the associated protocols also serve to foster civic engagement and transparency. When political parties and candidates are involved in the process, it demonstrates the ECI’s commitment to inclusive and accountable elections.
This involvement, along with the sharing of information and the videography of the process, helps to address any concerns or doubts that may arise among the public. By maintaining this level of transparency, the ECI reinforces the credibility of the electoral process and strengthens the trust of the voters.
Conclusion: Ensuring the Integrity of India’s Elections
The ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker is a crucial component in the ECI’s efforts to maintain the integrity, transparency, and accountability of India’s electoral process. By clearly identifying the EVMs used for training and awareness purposes, the ECI ensures that these machines are not confused with the ones used for actual voting.
Through the implementation of robust protocols, the involvement of political parties, and the sharing of information, the ECI demonstrates its commitment to upholding the principles of democracy. The use of ‘Training/Awareness EVMs’ not only ensures the proper handling of the machines but also empowers voters and fosters civic engagement.
As India continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the ECI’s efforts to maintain transparency and accountability in the electoral process, as exemplified by the ‘Training/Awareness EVM’ sticker, will remain a crucial aspect of safeguarding the nation’s democratic foundations. By upholding these principles, the ECI contributes to the strengthening of India’s vibrant democracy and the empowerment of its citizens.
For more information on the ECI’s efforts to ensure the integrity of India’s elections, please visit the Joint Action for Water website.
