EVMs to have colour photos of candidates soon, says EC, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The Election Commission announced that EVM ballot papers will now feature color photographs of candidates, starting with the Bihar Assembly election.
• Revised guidelines mandate more prominent display of candidate serial numbers on EVMs.
• The candidate's face will occupy three-fourths of the photo space for better visibility on the ballot paper.
• Photographs will measure 2 cm in breadth and 2.5 cm in height.
• Candidate serial numbers will be printed in bold with a size of 30, using international form of Indian numerals.

Detailed Insights:

• The guidelines were revised under Rule 49B of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, to enhance clarity and readability of EVM ballot papers.
• For Assembly elections, a specified pink-colored paper will be used for the ballot papers.
• The NOTA option will be placed after the last candidate's name, with a maximum of 15 candidates per sheet; blank space will follow if fewer than 16 options exist.
• Printing of EVM ballot papers should ideally occur at government presses, but private presses may be used if necessary, ensuring process safety.
• This move aims to enhance voter identification and reduce confusion during elections, potentially increasing voter participation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• EVM (Electronic Voting Machine): A device used to record votes electronically in elections.
• Rule 49B: Pertains to the design and printing of EVM ballot papers under the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.
• NOTA (None of the Above): An option on the ballot allowing voters to reject all candidates.