Election Commission Takes Strict Stance on EVM Tampering: Warns of Re-polls in Bengal Over Irregularities; Action to Be Taken Against Culprits

The Election Commission of India has adopted a strict stance regarding apprehensions of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Specifically in West Bengal, the Commission has directed the Presiding Officers at all polling stations to ensure that the candidate buttons on the EVMs remain clearly visible and free from any obstruction.

The Commission has stated that no tape, adhesive, paint, ink, perfume, or any other chemical substance should be applied to any button, as doing so could compromise the secrecy of the vote. Such instances will be construed as tampering with or interfering with the EVM—a serious electoral offense.

Strict Action Against Irregularities

On Tuesday, officials clarified that if any such irregularity is detected at any polling station, the Commission will not hesitate to take strict action. This could entail the registration of a criminal case, as well as an order for re-polling at the concerned booth.

According to the directives, whenever any instance of EVM tampering or a suspicious situation is observed, the Presiding Officer must immediately report it to the Sector Officer or the Returning Officer, so that appropriate action may be taken in a timely manner.