ECI Announces Color Photograph Inclusion on EVM Ballot Papers, Beginning with Bihar Assembly Elections

In a move to enhance the clarity of EVM ballot papers, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced revisions to the existing guidelines under Rule 49B of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. The key change involves the inclusion of color photographs of candidates on the ballot papers. These photographs will be prominently displayed, with the candidate’s face taking up a significant portion of the photo space. The new format will also utilize the international form of Indian numerals for candidate serial numbers and the NOTA option. The ECI has specified a font size of 30, in bold, to ensure clear readability of the information on the ballot papers. The introduction of these improved ballot papers will begin with the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar. The Election Commission emphasized that this initiative is one of many undertaken in recent months to refine and improve the election process, ultimately enhancing voter convenience. The ballot papers will be printed on high-quality 70 GSM paper. Furthermore, for Assembly elections, pink-colored paper with designated RGB values will be used. The ECI has also mandated that the names of all candidates and NOTA will be printed in a uniform font type and size to maintain consistency and ensure ease of reading.