The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday announced a new design for Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) ballot papers to improve clarity and voter convenience, beginning with the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
For the first time, ballot papers will feature colour photographs of candidates. The redesigned format also includes larger serial numbers printed in bold, international Indian numerals with a font size of 30, aimed at making them easier to read.
The Commission said the revamp follows revised guidelines under Rule 49B of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, and is part of 28 initiatives introduced in the last six months to streamline electoral processes and make them more voter-friendly.
“To ensure uniformity, the names of all candidates and NOTA will be printed in the same font type and size, large enough for easy readability,” the poll body stated.
The ballot papers will be printed on 70 GSM paper with standardised specifications. For Assembly elections, a distinct pink-coloured paper with defined RGB values will be used, helping voters and polling officials identify them easily.
Officials said the upgraded ballot papers are expected to significantly improve the voting experience, particularly for elderly and less literate voters, by reducing confusion and enhancing transparency.
The Bihar elections will be the first to use the new format, with the design likely to be adopted in other states in subsequent polls.
-IANS