To ensure transparency in the electoral process, Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines would be used in the Bijepur by-poll, informed State Chief Electoral Officer DN Gupta on Friday.
Gupta said VVPAT machines would be used in future general elections as per the notification of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
VVPAT machines would be attached to the electronic voting machines (EVM) in all the booths during the upcoming Bijepur by-poll, he said.
“In case of any irregularities or suspicion, a concerned candidate or his or her representative can register a complaint, which can be verified from the slip.
The data can also be stored for a number of days,” said Gupta.
He informed that as the Bijepur by-poll matter is subjudice in the Orissa High Court, the ECI is waiting for necessary orders for announcement of the date for the by-poll.
“Unless all the election petitions before the High Court or the Supreme Court are settled, the Election Commission cannot take any decision,” Gupta added.