Even today, discussions about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) intensify in the country before any election. The first phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 will be held on November 6 (Thursday), covering 121 constituencies. The second phase will take place on November 11, and the results will be announced on November 14.
Where are EVM machines made?
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Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) manufactures EVMs in Bengaluru.
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Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) manufactures EVMs in Hyderabad.
Both these companies operate under the Government of India and manufacture Electronic Voting Machines under the supervision of the Election Commission of India (ECI). In addition, some EVM units are also produced in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
When was the EVM used for the first time?
EVMs were used for the first time in the 1982 elections. At that time, the machine could display the names of only 8 candidates. Later, in 1989, it was redesigned to accommodate 16 candidates.
How is the EVM secured after voting?
Once voting ends, EVMs are sealed immediately in the presence of both the candidates’ representatives and election officials. All machines are sealed, tagged, and signed, then placed in transparent boxes and transported to the strong room.
The vehicles carrying the EVMs are equipped with GPS trackers, and their movement is monitored by CCTV cameras. Security is ensured by both police and central forces. The entire process—loading and unloading of machines—is video recorded, making any kind of tampering nearly impossible.
How are EVMs protected inside the strong room?
EVM security inside the strong room is maintained at three levels:
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By the local police force,
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By the central paramilitary forces, and
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Under the watch of representatives of the candidates.
Only authorized officials are allowed to enter the strong room, ensuring maximum transparency and security of the voting machines.
