The Election Commission (EC) has introduced a major update to its online voter ID services. Individuals seeking to add new names, make corrections, or remove names from voter lists will now need to verify their requests using a mobile number linked to their Aadhaar card. This change involves the implementation of an e-sign feature on the ECINet portal and app. The EC’s decision stems from an incident in the Aland assembly constituency of Karnataka, where allegations of mass voter deletions surfaced. The e-sign feature, which uses the government’s unique identification system, allows users to digitally sign documents using their Aadhaar number. This feature is now integrated into the process of deleting or correcting voter IDs.
The new system aims to prevent misuse of voter lists. Previously, forms could be submitted by linking a mobile number with the Voter ID number (EPIC), which sometimes led to incorrect numbers being used. With e-sign, applicants will input their Aadhaar number, receive an OTP on their linked mobile, and only then submit the form after providing consent. Following the e-sign process, applicants are directed to the ECINet portal to finalize their submission. This will affect Form 6 (for new registrations), Form 7 (for deletions/objections), and Form 8 (for corrections).
This initiative was spurred by the discovery of thousands of potentially fraudulent voter deletion applications in the Aland constituency of Karnataka. An investigation revealed that a significant majority of the deletion requests were invalid. The mobile numbers used for OTP verification were not associated with actual voters in many cases. This situation pushed the EC to bolster its security and verification protocols, leading to this update.
The EC has clarified that the direct online deletion of a voter’s name is not possible. Physical verification by the Booth Level Officer (BLO) and Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) is essential. Voters retain the right to present their case during the process.
ECINet, launched this year, combines about 40 older apps and portals, including ERONet. This platform enables voters to apply online with ease, and officials can then process their applications. The e-sign feature has been integrated on this platform to increase transparency and ensure security.