Today, EVMs remain the hottest issue in the Indian election system, but it is not that the use of EVMs has come into discussion in India in recent times. Even before this, this had happened in 1982. EVMs were first conceived in 1977. . Its prototype was developed in 1979 and EVM was used for the first time in the elections held in Kerala in 1982. Let us throw light on the entire journey of EVM in this article.
Journey of EVM
After its first demonstration before political parties in August 1980, the Commission issued instructions for its use. EVMs were used for the first time in the elections held in Kerala in 1982. However, the elections were canceled after it was challenged in the Supreme Court.
It was agreed to use it to conduct elections in 1998
In 1998, it was agreed to use it to conduct elections. EVMs were used in 25 assembly constituencies of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi.
EVMs were used for the first time in all 543 constituencies of the country in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.
What is the history of Indian electronic voting machine?
The first Indian EVM was invented in 1980 by ‘MB Hanifa’, which he registered on 15 October 1980 under the name ‘Electronic Operated Counting Machine’. The original design made by “MB Hanifa” using integrated circuits was displayed to the public in government exhibitions held in six cities of Tamil Nadu.
Nationwide Implementation
The true watershed moment arrived in 2004 when EVMs were deployed across all 543 constituencies of India during the Lok Sabha elections. This monumental shift signaled the widespread acceptance and adoption of EVMs as the primary mode of electoral voting, ushering in an era of unprecedented efficiency and transparency in the electoral process.
The Architect behind Indian EVMs
The inception of Indian EVMs can be credited to ‘MB Hanifa’, who invented the first Indian EVM in 1980. Hanifa’s pioneering invention, registered as the ‘Electronic Operated Counting Machine’, laid the groundwork for modernizing India’s electoral infrastructure. His original design, showcased in government exhibitions across Tamil Nadu, highlighted the transformative potential of technology in democratizing the electoral process.
Global Perspectives on EVMs
While India embraced EVMs as a cornerstone of its electoral system, global perspectives on electronic voting vary. While some countries in Europe and North America are moving away from the EVM system due to concerns over security and reliability, others in South America and Asia are increasingly embracing EVMs, recognizing their potential to streamline electoral processes and enhance voter participation.
In conclusion, the evolution of Electronic Voting Machines in India exemplifies the fusion of technology with democracy, revolutionizing electoral practices and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Voting Trends Worldwide
It is noteworthy that while some regions are transitioning away from EVMs, others are embracing them. In Europe and North America, concerns over security and reliability have prompted a shift away from EVMs. Conversely, countries in South America and Asia are increasingly adopting EVMs, acknowledging their role in modernizing electoral infrastructure and promoting voter participation.
In conclusion, the global landscape of electronic voting machines presents a diverse array of perspectives and trends, reflecting the evolving dynamics of electoral processes worldwide.
