SC questions EC reluctance to use VVPAT: 

SC questions EC reluctance to use VVPAT: 

Context:

The Supreme Court has questioned the Election Commission on its reluctance to use voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) units with EVMs for the Gujarat Assembly polls in 2017

What is the issue?

• The hearing was based on a petition filed by Mohit Singh, represented by Counsel Kapil Sibal, appealing against Gujarat High Court Order.
• The Gujarat High Court had diminished the plea to direct the commission to implement the VVPAT voting mechanism in the Gujarat polls or otherwise use ballot papers to ensure a transparent, free and fair election.
•  In 2013’s Subramanian Swamy vs. Election Commission of India case, the Supreme Court judgement had stated that the EVMs with VVPAT system ensure the accuracy of the voting system.

KNOW ABOUT Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

What is VVPAT?

• The Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail is a method that provides feedback to voters.
• It is an independent verification printer machine and is attached to electronic voting machines.
• It allows voters to verify if their vote has gone to the intended candidate.

EVM’s equipped with Voter-verified paper audit trail

• VVPAT device functions like a printer to be attached to the ballot unit.
• Once the vote is cast it dispenses a paper slip showing the symbol on which it is cast.
• The voter can only see this slip through a screened window.
• After seven seconds, the slip automatically gets cut and falls into a sealed drop box.
• The printout is deposited in a box and can be used to resolve any dispute regarding the election