The process of voting for majority in three phases of Lok Sabha elections has been done through EVMs or electronic voting machines. EVM machines will decide the fate of 283 out of 543 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Questions are often raised on its safety. But have you ever wondered where and how the EVM machines in which you vote are kept after the voting is over? What is done to ensure their security?
What security measures are adopted to ensure the security and reliability of EVM machines? Let us know which measures help in maintaining the voting process safely. This includes sealing the EVM machines and keeping them safely in the strong room. It stipulates that no anti-Semitism action can take place in EVM machines.
In addition, technical security measures, such as video cameras, are also deployed to thwart any application. During and after the voting process, EVM machines are set up at a special place to keep them safe, in which they are protected from any access. This will ensure that no misuse can be done with EVM machines.
At the end of voting, the Presiding Officer (PO) verifies the recording of votes cast in the EVM. All polling agents are given a verified copy of the recording. The EVMs are then sealed, often with a separate seal affixed by the candidates or their agents.
First of all the sealed EVM is kept in a secure container. This container is usually guarded by paramilitary forces or police. GPS tracking is used to monitor the movements of EVMs during transportation. CCTV cameras are also installed at sensitive places. There are several technical security features to protect EVMs from tampering. These include data encryption, real-time monitoring, and self-sealing mechanisms.
Strong Room is a specially secured room, where the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) are kept safe after the voting till the declaration of election results. The purpose of the strong room is to protect the EVMs and VVPATs from any kind of tampering or damage and to ensure fairness and transparency of the election process.
The security of a strong room is at many levels, such as thick walls of the room, strong doors and a fool-proof locking system. Additionally, CCTV cameras, surveillance systems and electronic anti-intrusion gadgets are installed. It is monitored 24/7 by central paramilitary forces and state police. Only election officials and security personnel are allowed entry into the strong room. Strict protocols and approval procedures are followed.