Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 18 January 2024
In a bid to fortify measures against impersonation and electoral fraud, the Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced the Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC) in 1993. Recognizing the need for continuous improvement in technology and security, the Commission has announced a significant upgrade to the EPICs.
The revamped EPICs boast enhanced security features, including changes in card size, thickness, hologram, micro text, ghost image, guilloche pattern, and the incorporation of a QR code. These improvements aim to bolster the integrity and authenticity of the EPICs in the face of evolving technological advancements.
Eligibility for the new EPICs is extended to electors who registered during the Special Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Roll-2023, in revision 2, 3, 4 of continuation updation, and in the final revision of 2024.
To facilitate the distribution of the upgraded EPICs, the Election Commission has collaborated with the Department of Posts. The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, A&N Islands, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Posts, A&N Islands, ensuring a smooth and secure delivery process.
In a recent development, the Chief Electoral Officer, A&N Islands, Mr. B S Jaglan, IAS, convened a meeting with the Postal Department, A&N Islands, at his chamber in the Secretariat, A&N Administration. Although the Post Master General of A&N Islands was unable to attend due to prior commitments, the meeting saw the participation of the Deputy Superintendent of Post, A&N Islands, and other electoral officials.
Numerous printed EPICs are currently in transit and are expected to be handed over to the Department of Posts for distribution to electors. Emphasizing the urgency of the matter, the Chief Electoral Officer directed the Department of Posts to expedite the delivery of EPICs, considering the upcoming General Election to Lok Sabha-2024. The collaborative efforts between the Election Commission and the Department of Posts aim to ensure a swift and efficient distribution process, securing the electoral process against potential malpractices.