The Voting Process

Steps in an Election

1. Notification: ECI announces dates.
2. Nomination: Candidates file papers to contest.
3. Campaigning: Parties hold rallies, distribute manifestos, and ask for votes. Campaigning stops 48 hours before voting.
4. Polling Day: Voters cast their vote.
5. Counting & Results: Votes are counted, and winners declared.

Inside the Polling Booth

On voting day, officials ensure the process is secure:

1. 1st Polling Officer: Checks Voter ID and name on the list.
2. 2nd Polling Officer: Inks the finger (indelimble ink), gives a slip, and takes a signature.
3. 3rd Polling Officer: Checks the ink and activates the EVM.
4. Voting: The voter presses the button on the EVM next to their chosen candidate.

Technology in Voting

Electronic Voting Machine (EVM)

• What is it? A device used to cast votes electronically.
• Benefits: Faster counting, eco-friendly (saves paper), and reduces invalid votes.

VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail)

• Function: When a button is pressed on the EVM, the VVPAT prints a slip showing the chosen symbol and candidate’s name.
• Purpose: It allows the voter to verify their vote and serves as a physical backup for counting disputes.

NOTA (None of the Above)

If a voter does not like any candidate, they can press the NOTA button. It registers their dissatisfaction but does not affect the winning result.