Voter ID Card: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has rolled out a new e-verification system to curb the misuse of voter list deletion and objection processes. Under the new arrangement, any individual applying to delete a name from the electoral roll or filing an objection to a new inclusion will now be required to complete verification through a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to their registered mobile number.
Election Commission Introduces E-Verification to Stop Misuse of Voter List Deletions
Officials explained that this step has been introduced to prevent fraudulent use of voter identity. Earlier, applicants could file requests without proper verification, raising the risk of misuse. The new mechanism, which has been operational since the first fortnight of September, ensures that objections or deletion requests are linked with verified voter credentials.
ECI official pointed out that in some cases, individuals might use someone else’s name
An ECI official pointed out that in some cases, individuals might use someone else’s name or phone number while submitting an online objection. With e-verification, such attempts will now be blocked.
The Commission clarified that this move was not a direct reaction to the recent controversy in Aland constituency, Karnataka, where wrongful attempts were made to remove names from the rolls. Instead, officials said that the feature had been under development for some time and was formally introduced this month.
The ECI further emphasized that while a voter can still submit Form-7 online to request deletion of an entry from the electoral roll of a particular constituency, the submission of the form alone does not guarantee removal. Each request will undergo e-verification to ensure transparency and authenticity.
The integration of Aadhaar with Voter ID, along with this e-verification process, is expected to tighten safeguards against impersonation and wrongful deletion, reinforcing the credibility of the electoral system.