EC to introduce QR-based identity cards for counting centres on May 4

Ahead of counting day on May 4, the Election Commission of India has introduced a new 'QR-Based ID System' to strengthen security at counting centres - a move that will come into effect the day votes are counted to determine the election results for Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry besides the byelections in seven assembly constituencies of five states.

The poll panel said the QR code-based photo identity card will later be extended to all future general and byelections to Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

ECI has prescribed a three-tier security mechanism to verify identity at counting centres.


At the first and second tiers, photo identity cards issued by the returning officers will be checked manually. At the third and innermost security cordon near the counting hall, entry will be permitted only after successful verification through QR code scanning.

"The new QR code-based photo identity cards will be applicable for the categories of persons authorised by ECI to enter counting centres and halls, which include returning officers, assistant returning officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents and counting agents, among others," the poll panel said in a statement on Thursday.

All chief electoral officers, district election officers, returning officers and assistant returning officers have been directed to ensure 'strict compliance' with these instructions to uphold the highest standards of transparency, security and efficiency in the counting process, the ECI said.