Delhi Polls 2025: Can EVMs Be Tampered With? Here's What Election Commission Says

Delhi Polls 2025: Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, addressing concerns over allegations of tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs), reiterated their reliability and the transparency of India's electoral process.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, he said, "There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in EVMs," Kumar stated. "There is no question of introducing a virus or bug, invalid votes, or any possibility of rigging. High Courts and the Supreme Court have repeatedly upheld the integrity of EVMs in various judgments."

Addressing Voter Turnout Concerns

Kumar also addressed misconceptions about voter turnout manipulation. He clarified that discrepancies often perceived in voter turnout records arise due to the timing of data updates, not manipulation.

"Comparing final voter turnout data with the 5 PM data is misleading. Near the close of polling, officials are engaged in multiple tasks, including ensuring the accuracy of Form 17C, which is provided to polling agents at the close of polling stations," he explained.

Transparency in Counting

To further allay doubts, the Election Commission (EC) released a detailed process chart outlining the counting process, showcasing the safeguards and transparency measures in place.

India's Gold Standard in Elections

Highlighting India's robust electoral framework, Kumar referred to the country's elections as the "gold standard." He assured that while the system is designed to be foolproof, individuals who commit errors are held accountable.

"We are ready to punish those who commit mistakes. India's elections are a global benchmark, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity," he affirmed.

He was speaking at the press meet where the dates of Delhi Assembly polls were announced.

The assembly elections for 70 seats in the national capital will be held on February 5 with counting on February 8. Bypolls to two assembly constituencies -- Milkipur in Uttar Pradesh and Erode in Tamil Nadu -- will also be held according to the same schedule.

This time, Delhi is set to witness a triangular contest among ruling AAP, BJP and Congress.