NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled a QR code-based Photo Identity Card system aimed at enhancing security and preventing unauthorised access to vote counting centres during upcoming elections.
The new system will come into effect on May 4, 2026, coinciding with the counting of votes for the Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry. It will also be implemented during by-elections in seven Assembly constituencies across five states.
According to the Commission, the initiative has been introduced through the ECINET platform and is part of a broader push toward modernising electoral processes. The QR-based identity system will be adopted in all future Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, as well as by-elections.
The move is among more than 30 electoral reforms and administrative measures introduced by the ECI over the past year. These include the rollout of standardised QR-enabled identity cards for Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
To ensure robust security, a three-tier verification mechanism will be enforced at counting centres. At the first and second levels, Photo Identity Cards issued by the Returning Officer will undergo manual checks. At the third and innermost layer near the counting hall, access will only be granted after successful QR code authentication.
The QR-based Photo Identity Cards will be mandatory for all authorised individuals, including election officials, counting staff, technical personnel, candidates, and their agents.
Additionally, dedicated media centres will be set up near counting halls to facilitate journalists. Media personnel will continue to gain entry based on authority letters issued under existing guidelines.
The Commission has directed all concerned officials to ensure strict implementation of the system and deploy trained staff at checkpoints to maintain transparency, security, and efficiency.