ECI Rolls Out QR Code IDs for Vote Counting Security

The Election Commission of India has rolled out a new QR code-based photo identity card system to prevent unauthorized access at vote counting centers ahead of the May 4 counting for assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry, along with by-elections in several constituencies.

The system, integrated into the commission's ECINET platform, introduces a three-tier security verification process at all counting centers. At the first two levels, photo identity cards issued by returning officers undergo manual checks. Entry to the innermost security zone near the counting halls requires successful QR code scanning on the new cards, officials said. The measure applies to all authorized personnel, including returning officers, assistant returning officers, counting staff, technical teams, candidates and their agents.

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik said the QR code-based module is being deployed for the first time in these polls. "The initiative covers multiple states, including Assam, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, along with by-elections in select constituencies," she noted. In Tamil Nadu, counting will occur at 62...