ECI Streamlines Postal Ballot Counting to Ensure Clarity and Timely Results
The Commission has directed that the penultimate round of EVM/VVPAT counting will begin only after the completion of postal ballot counting at the respective centers.
New Delhi, September 26: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday announced its 30th initiative in six months aimed at improving the electoral process, introducing fresh measures to streamline the counting of postal ballots and reduce delays in result declaration.
At present, the counting of postal ballots and electronically transmitted postal ballots (ETPBs) begins at 8:00 AM, while the counting of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) starts at 8:30 AM. Under earlier guidelines, EVM counting could progress irrespective of the stage of postal ballot counting, raising the possibility of EVM results being finalized before postal ballot tallies.
With the Commission recently expanding home voting options for persons with disabilities (PwDs) and senior citizens aged 85 and above, the number of postal ballots has risen substantially. To ensure uniformity, the Commission has directed that the penultimate round of EVM/VVPAT counting will begin only after the completion of postal ballot counting at the respective centers.
The ECI has also instructed Returning Officers (ROs) to deploy adequate tables and staff in cases of high postal ballot volumes, ensuring there are no delays in completing the process. The move, officials said, will enhance transparency, clarity, and public confidence in the counting process.
