CEC Gyanesh Kumar announces key changes EVM ballot papers; Check list here

Bihar Assembly Elections 2025: For the first time ever, Bihar’s EVMs will show coloured candidate images. What does this mean for voters-and could it set a national trend?” Read the article for full story.

Patna: In a significant move to enhance voter experience, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday announced that poll-bound Bihar will be the first state where the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) ballot and candidate's photos will appear in colour.

Addressing a press conference in Patna, Kumar said the current black-and-white images on EVM ballots make it difficult for voters to identify candidates, even though the election symbols remain clear.

These updated guidelines for the design and printing of EVM ballot papers, set to debut in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. This initiative aims to improve clarity and accessibility for voters, particularly benefiting first-time and elderly voters.

 CEC in Patna Presser: Bihar Assembly Polls will be held before 22 November

Bihar Elections 2025: Key Changes in EVM Ballot Papers

1. Coloured Photographs of Candidates:

For the first time, EVM ballot papers will feature coloured photographs of candidates, replacing the previous black-and-white or absent images. The candidate's face will occupy three-fourths of the allotted photo space, ensuring better visibility and easier identification.

2. Prominent Serial Numbers:

The serial numbers of candidates and the None of the Above (NOTA) option will be displayed in bold, with a font size of 30 in the international form of Indian numerals. This enhancement aims to reduce confusion and aid voters in making accurate selections.

3. Uniform Font and Layout:

All candidate names and NOTA will be printed in the same font type and size, large enough for easy readability. This uniformity ensures consistency and helps voters quickly locate their preferred candidates.

4. Coloured Paper for Assembly Elections:

For Assembly Elections, the ballot papers will be printed on pink-coloured 70 GSM paper with specified RGB values, distinguishing them from other election materials.

Implementation and Impact

These changes are part of the ECI's ongoing efforts to streamline and improve election processes, having already undertaken 28 initiatives in the past six months to enhance voter convenience.

Bihar Assembly Poll: CEC-led EC delegation in Patna; Political buzz intensifies

The revised EVM ballot papers will be used in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, marking a significant step towards a more voter-friendly electoral process.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar emphasized that these reforms are designed to make the voting process more accessible and transparent, particularly for voters who may face challenges in identifying candidates.