Guwahati: In a shocking incident, a Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine, marked with the unique identifier EVTEB96784, has been reported missing from Assam’ Udalguri district.
This information has created a major controversy and prompted a preliminary inquiry by the Joint Chief Electoral Officer, raising questions about the security and integrity of the electoral process in the region.
According to reports available, during the initial randomization process of segregating machines assembly segment-wise, it was discovered that the said VVPAT machine could not be located physically.
This in turn has led to numerous concerns about the transparency and efficiency of the electoral machinery in Udalguri district.
“The strong room has 24×7 CCTV coverage and armed security, and there is no question of any missing unit due to the stringent storage and security protocol with the participation of the political parties at every stage,” it said after the preliminary inquiry.
Strict action will be taken if any dereliction of duty is found on the part of the district officers concerned,” an official statement said.