How can India ensure fair and transparent elections amidst ongoing debates about ballot and electronic voting?

Ensuring fair and transparent elections is crucial for the legitimacy of India’s democracy. The ongoing debates about the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) versus traditional ballot papers have raised concerns about electoral integrity. India can adopt several measures to strengthen transparency and public trust in the electoral process:

• Strengthening VVPAT Verification: Increase the percentage of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips matched with EVM counts in each constituency to boost confidence in electronic voting.
• Independent Audits: Conduct regular, random, and independent audits of EVMs and VVPATs by credible third parties to verify their integrity.
• Transparency in EVM Design: Make EVM hardware and software open to scrutiny by technical experts and political parties to dispel doubts about tampering.
• Robust Grievance Redressal: Set up fast-track mechanisms for addressing electoral complaints related to voting technology and process.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate voters about how EVMs and VVPATs work to reduce misinformation and increase trust.
• Use of Technology for Monitoring: Deploy technology such as live webcasting and GPS tracking of EVMs during transportation to prevent malpractices.
• Inclusion of Stakeholders: Involve political parties, civil society, and technical experts in regular consultations on electoral reforms and technology use.
• Alternative Voting Methods: Explore pilot projects for remote voting options, especially for migrant workers and differently-abled citizens, with strong safeguards.
• Strengthening Election Commission: Ensure the independence, resources, and powers of the Election Commission of India to enforce the rules impartially.
• Periodic Review of Voting Systems: Set up expert committees to periodically review the performance and security of voting systems and recommend updates.