New Delhi, August 19: The Indian electoral system, recognized as one of the most extensive in the world, is back in the spotlight following U.S. President Donald Trump’s commendation of India’s voter identification system. Trump raised concerns about conducting elections in the U.S. without mandatory photo identification, citing India’s model as an example. He reiterated his support for the “Save America Act,” which proposes requiring documented proof of citizenship and government-issued photo IDs for federal elections.
However, the strength of India’s electoral system extends beyond just voter identification. At its core is the Election Commission of India, an independent constitutional body responsible for overseeing elections for the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state assemblies, and the presidential and vice-presidential elections.
The scale of elections in India is immense. Over 642 million people participated in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, making it one of the largest democratic electoral exercises globally. Millions of voters cast their ballots at more than 1 million polling stations, ranging from remote villages and challenging geographical areas to major urban centers.
The foundation of the Indian electoral system lies in the voter list. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) play a crucial role in preparing, verifying, and updating these lists regularly. Political parties can appoint their booth-level agents to scrutinize the voter lists and raise any discrepancies with election officials. This process ensures that the preparation of voter lists is under both administrative oversight and political scrutiny.
Voter identification at polling stations is typically conducted through the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC). However, other valid identification documents specified by the Election Commission are also accepted for voting. The digital e-EPIC feature has made it easier for voters to access their identification and election-related information.
The presence of candidates and representatives of political parties serves as an important safeguard in the electoral process. Polling agents can monitor the procedures inside polling stations, while counting agents are present during the vote counting process. This ensures additional oversight during both voting and counting phases.
Technology plays a significant role in the Indian electoral system. The use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) along with the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system is standard. Established protocols govern the commissioning, sealing, storage, transportation, and verification of EVMs and VVPATs. Additionally, strong rooms, election observers, and detailed counting procedures provide further security to the electoral process.
Experts assert that the robustness of India’s electoral system lies not only in voter identification but also in the multiple levels of checks and balances present. From voter registration to voting, counting, and verification, constitutional oversight, administrative mechanisms, political party scrutiny, the presence of candidates’ representatives, and technology all work together to fortify the electoral process.
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