Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 05 February 2024
In preparation for the upcoming General Elections to Lok Sabha in 2024, the Election Commission of India has initiated a comprehensive awareness programme. The focus of this program is to provide citizens with a firsthand experience of the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) to enhance understanding and familiarity with the voting process.
Following the guidelines laid out by the Election Commission, a Mobile Demonstration Van embarked on its journey to various Polling Stations on February 4, 2024. The selected polling stations included 162, 163, 191, 192, 193, 194, 284, 285, and 286, where the initiative aimed to enlighten the general public about the fundamental features of EVMs and VVPATs.
The awareness programme seeks to educate citizens about the step-by-step procedure of casting votes using EVMs and highlight the significance of the VVPAT system. Through physical demonstrations, voters gain a deeper understanding of the functionality of EVMs and VVPATs. The hands-on experience is crucial in dispelling misconceptions, boosting voter confidence, and ensuring a more informed and participative electorate.
The Election Commission emphasized that the programme is pivotal in fostering knowledge about the basic features of the voting machines and the verification process through VVPAT slips. By providing citizens with practical insights into the voting process, the Election Commission aims to encourage a more engaged and knowledgeable electorate for the upcoming elections.
As the Mobile Demonstration Van continues its journey to various locations, the Election Commission anticipates a positive impact on voter awareness and participation, ultimately contributing to the integrity and transparency of the democratic process in the country.