EVMs Are Standalone Machines
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has reiterated that India's electronic voting machines are standalone devices.
The machines are not connected to the internet and do not use wireless connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, he said.
This means the machines cannot be accessed through an external network in the manner of an internet-connected computer.
Remote Hacking Concerns
The CEC's comments address longstanding concerns about hacking and remote manipulation of EVMs.
Since the machines do not have internet or wireless network connectivity, the Election Commission maintains that they cannot be remotely controlled through such channels.
The security of EVMs, however, also involves safeguards covering their manufacture, storage, transportation, deployment and sealing after polling.
Debate Over EVM Security
The use of EVMs in India has remained a subject of political and public debate for several years.
Questions have been raised about the reliability of electronic voting, the verification of votes, storage procedures and the counting process.
The Election Commission has consistently maintained that multiple technical and administrative safeguards are in place.
Role of VVPAT
The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system provides an additional mechanism for verifying votes cast through EVMs.
After casting a vote, the voter can briefly see a paper slip showing the selected candidate before the slip is deposited into a sealed compartment.
VVPAT therefore provides a physical audit trail alongside the electronic record.
Security From Manufacture to Polling
EVM security involves several stages.
These include manufacturing and testing, storage, transportation to polling stations, sealing procedures and post-poll storage in secured strongrooms.
Election officials also follow established procedures to protect machines from unauthorised access.
Political Debate Continues
Despite the Election Commission's assurances, political debate over EVMs continues.
Some political parties and groups have called for greater verification of VVPAT slips to strengthen confidence in the electoral process.
The Election Commission has maintained that the existing system incorporates appropriate safeguards.
Election Commission's Position
CEC Gyanesh Kumar's latest comments once again highlight the Election Commission's position on the technical design of India's voting machines.
Because EVMs are not connected to the internet, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, they cannot be remotely accessed through those communication channels, according to the Commission.
Conclusion
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has said that Indian EVMs are not connected to the internet, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and function as standalone devices.
The Election Commission maintains that this prevents remote access through network-based channels.
At the same time, questions surrounding EVM security, VVPAT verification and electoral transparency remain part of India's continuing public and political debate.
