The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued new guidelines on the counting of postal ballots to ensure greater transparency. This marks the 30th decision taken by the commission in the last six months as part of its electoral reforms.
Recently, the ECI allowed physically challenged voters and those above 85 years of age to vote from home, which has significantly increased the number of postal ballots. To streamline the process, the commission has now directed that postal ballots will be counted first, followed by the last two rounds of EVM votes.
Earlier, postal ballot counting began at 8 a.m., with EVM counting starting at 8:30 a.m. However, the revised process ensures that postal votes are fully counted before the final rounds of EVM votes. This move aims to prevent confusion and reduce tension around postal ballot results.
The ECI has also directed state election commissions to prepare proper logistical arrangements in constituencies with a large number of postal ballots. Officials say this adjustment will bring more clarity and fairness to the overall counting process.
