Maharashtra Election 2024: How votes are counted
On counting day, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are retrieved from the strong rooms in the presence of Election Commission (EC) Special Observers, returning officers, and representatives of candidates. This process is filmed for transparency.
The EVM control units are transported to counting tables under CCTV surveillance. The unique ID numbers and seals of these units are verified by polling agents. A button on the unit displays the number of votes secured by each candidate, which is then recorded on the results sheet.
Counting Process
After the start of the counting process, ballot polls are counted first in the first half an hour. Post counting of ballot papers, EVM machines are opened block by block.
Role of VVPAT in ensuring accuracy
A random draw of lots, conducted by the Returning Officer, selects a Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine for slip counting. This process occurs inside a secure booth after EVM counting concludes for a constituency.
In case of discrepancies between VVPAT and EVM counts, the paper slip count takes precedence, and result sheets are updated accordingly. Opposition parties may request counting of all VVPAT slips in a constituency if mismatches arise.
Backdrop of political challenges
The Maharashtra elections occur amidst a fragmented political scenario. Shiv Sena factions, led by Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar, will compete against the BJP and Congress. The elections will test alliances and strategies across party lines as both national and regional parties aim to secure their influence.
