Introduction:

A plea was presented before the Madras High Court by S Packiaraj, an advocate, urging the Court to mandate the counting of 100% Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine printout slips linked to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the upcoming general elections. The petitioner emphasized the need for transparency and the preservation of democratic values in the electoral process.

Arguments:

Packiaraj, the petitioner, stressed the vital role of ensuring free and fair elections by advocating for the complete counting of VVPAT printout slips. He highlighted the significance of VVPATs as an essential alternative verification method, especially in cases of alleged EVM manipulation. Citing past experiences, the petitioner referred to previous petitions dismissed by the court, wherein the Election Commission’s assurances for 100% VVPAT use were later contradicted by a circular limiting the counting to only 1% or 5% of printed slips.

The petitioner drew attention to international practices, mentioning countries like Japan, the inventors of EVMs and VVPATs, which transitioned solely to counting VVPAT slips for error-free election results. Packiaraj underscored the necessity of avoiding marginal victories influenced by erratic numbers, asserting that neglecting full VVPAT slip counting would defeat the purpose of its installation and compromise the election’s integrity.

Court’s Judgement:

The Madras High Court bench, consisting of Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice Bharatha Chakravarthy, deferred the case to January 19th upon the Election Commission’s request for an adjournment. The petitioner’s plea stands to count 100% of VVPAT printout slips for ensuring transparent and reliable electoral processes, aligning with democratic principles.