EC launches e-sign feature for addition, deletion, and correction of voter names, Pg15

Key Highlights:

• The Election Commission (EC) launched an e-sign feature on its ECINet portal and app in the second week of September.
• The feature requires verification via Aadhaar-linked phone numbers for voter registration, deletion, and correction applications.
• ECINet integrates over 40 of the EC’s earlier mobile and Web applications and went live on June 19.
• The new feature aims to prevent fraudulent voter list alterations, addressing concerns raised in cases like the Aland Assembly constituency.

Detailed Insights:

• Applicants submitting Forms 6, 7, and 8 must now authenticate via Aadhaar OTP through a CDAC-hosted portal.
• Previously, only a phone number linked to an EPIC was required, lacking specific voter detail verification.
• The e-sign initiative responds to allegations of fraudulent voter deletions and additions in constituencies like Aland and Rajura.
• The Karnataka CID investigated the removal of 5,994 voters in Aland using forged Form 7 ahead of the 2023 Assembly election.

Key Concepts Involved:

• ECINet: A unified platform by the Election Commission integrating various election-related applications.
• Aadhaar OTP: A one-time password sent to the phone number linked with an individual's Aadhaar number for authentication.
• Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC): An identification card issued by the Election Commission to registered voters.