New Delhi, April 30: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced a QR code–based Photo Identity Card system to enhance security and prevent unauthorised access at counting centres during elections.
According to the official release, the new system will be implemented through the ECINET platform, marking a significant step toward strengthening transparency and efficiency in the counting process.
The initiative will be rolled out starting May 4, 2026, during the counting of votes for the Legislative Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, along with bye-elections in seven Assembly constituencies across five states. The Commission has indicated that the system will subsequently be extended to all future General and bye-elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
According to the ECI, the QR-based identity verification mechanism is designed to eliminate the possibility of unauthorised individuals entering counting centres. It forms part of a broader set of over 30 reform measures introduced by the Commission over the past year, including the standardisation of QR code–based ID cards for Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
A three-tier security protocol has been put in place to ensure robust identity verification. At the first and second levels, officials will manually check Photo Identity Cards issued by the Returning Officer (RO). The third and innermost layer, located near the counting hall, will allow entry only after successful QR code scanning, thereby adding a digital authentication layer to the process.
The QR code–enabled Photo Identity Cards will be mandatory for all authorised personnel permitted inside counting centres. This includes Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents, and counting agents, among others. The move is expected to streamline access control while minimising risks associated with impersonation or credential misuse.
To facilitate media coverage, dedicated Media Centres will be set up near counting halls at each centre. Entry for journalists will continue under the existing guidelines, based on authority letters issued by the Commission.
The ECI has directed District Election Officers and Returning Officers to ensure full preparedness for the rollout, including the deployment of trained personnel at designated checkpoints for smooth implementation. Chief Electoral Officers across states have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the new system.
With this initiative, the Election Commission aims to uphold the highest standards of security, transparency, and operational efficiency in the electoral counting process.
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