Election Commission launches tech-based system to streamline voter turnout reporting.
Patna, June 3, 2025: In a significant move towards enhancing transparency and efficiency, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced a streamlined, technology-driven process for sharing real-time voter turnout data on polling days.
The initiative aims to minimize delays and improve public communication, aligning with the repeated emphasis of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on timely updates.
Election Commission real-time updates via ECINET and VTR App:
The new system integrates the ECINET platform with an upgraded Voter Turnout Reporting (VTR) App, replacing the earlier manual method that relied on phone calls, SMS, and handwritten reports.
Now, presiding Officers (POs) at polling stations will update voter attendance data directly into the ECINET App every two hours on polling day.
The data will be automatically compiled at the constituency level and published through the VTR App, maintaining the existing two-hour update interval.
A notable upgrade in the system is the mandatory final entry of voter attendance in the ECINET App immediately after polling ends before the PO leaves the polling station. This will enable faster availability of constituency-wise estimated polling percentages on the VTR app subject to network connectivity.
Where mobile networks are unavailable, the app allows offline data entry, which will be synchronized once the device regains connectivity.
Manual reporting is still statutorily required:
While the tech-based process will be the primary mode of public dissemination, the statutory requirement under Rule 49S of the Conduct of Election Rules 1961 remains intact.
Pos must still provide Form 17C, detailing the final voter turnout, to polling agents present at the close of polls.
Earlier delays and confusion to be eliminated:
Previously, voter turnout updates were delayed by 4-5 hours or more, with final figures sometimes arriving only the next day due to manual consolidation and physical transmission of records.
This often led to confusion and speculation. The new system aims to eliminate such issues entirely.
This revamped system is set to be implemented for the upcoming Bihar elections, marking a major technological upgrade in election management.
EOM.