Question

Which of the following statements about Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) in India are correct?

1. VVPAT was first piloted in Nagaland in 2013.

2. Goa was the first state to use VVPAT for all assembly constituencies.

3. VVPAT slips are given to voters to take home for verification.

4. VVPAT machines are attached to Electronic Voting Machines.

• A. 1 and 2 only
• B. 1, 2 and 4 only
• C. 3 and 4 only
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 1, 2 and 4 only

Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) in India

Background and Implementation:

• VVPAT is a system that allows voters to verify that their vote has been recorded as intended.
• It was developed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to enhance the transparency and credibility of the electronic voting process.
• The first pilot project of VVPAT in India was conducted in November 2013 in the Northern Angami-II constituency of Nagaland during the assembly by-election.
• Goa became the first state in India to use VVPAT in all its assembly constituencies during the General Elections in 2017.

Working Mechanism and Features:

• VVPAT machines are attached to the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
• After a voter presses the button for their chosen candidate on the EVM, the VVPAT machine prints a slip indicating the serial number, name, and symbol of the candidate they voted for.
• This printed slip remains visible to the voter for a short period (usually 7 seconds) through a transparent window.
• Subsequently, the VVPAT slip is deposited in a sealed drop box within the machine.
• Crucially, VVPAT slips are not given to voters to take home; they are for auditing purposes only and are kept confidential.
• The ECI uses VVPAT slips for audits to ensure the accuracy of the EVM results and to address any discrepancies or disputes.
• The Supreme Court of India has mandated the use of VVPAT in all elections across the country.

Significance for Elections:

• VVPAT strengthens the trust in the electoral process by providing a physical audit trail.
• It acts as a deterrent against electoral malpractices and helps in resolving voter doubts about vote casting.
• The system is designed to be robust and secure, ensuring the integrity of every vote cast.