How QR Code Technology is Transforming Vote Counting in India

The Election Commission of India has launched a QR code-based Photo Identity Card system to enhance security during the upcoming vote counting for Assembly elections. This initiative aims to prevent unauthorized access to counting centers and will be implemented in future elections as well. With a three-tier security mechanism in place, the new system ensures that only authorized personnel can enter counting halls. This move is part of a broader effort to improve transparency and efficiency in the electoral process. Media coverage will also be facilitated through designated media centers at counting locations. Read on to learn more about these significant changes in India's electoral system.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 17:56 IST

New Security Measures for Vote Counting

New Delhi: As the counting of votes for the ongoing Assembly elections approaches on May 4, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled a new QR code-based Photo Identity Card system on ECINET. This initiative aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing counting centers, according to an official announcement.

The new system will first be implemented during the counting of votes for the general elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, as well as in bye-elections across seven Assembly constituencies in five states. The ECI plans to extend this technology to all future general and bye-elections for both Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.

Deputy Director P. Pawan stated that this initiative is part of over 30 measures introduced by the ECI in the past year, which also includes standardized QR Code-based photo ID cards for booth-level officers.

A three-tier security protocol has been established for identity verification at counting centers. The first two tiers will involve manual checks of photo identity cards issued by the Returning Officer.

At the innermost security level near the counting hall, entry will only be granted after successful QR code scanning.

The QR code-based identity cards will be issued to individuals authorized by the ECI to enter counting centers, including Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, election agents, and counting agents.

District Election Officers and Returning Officers have been instructed to ensure the effective implementation of this system, including the deployment of trained personnel at designated checkpoints to facilitate secure access control.

All Chief Electoral Officers, District Election Officers, Returning Officers, and Assistant Returning Officers are required to adhere strictly to these guidelines to maintain transparency, security, and efficiency during the counting process.

To support media coverage of the counting activities, a media center will be established near the counting halls at each counting center. Media personnel will continue to gain entry based on authority letters issued by the ECI.