CEC affirms Indian EVMs lack internet, Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar says Indian electronic voting machines do not connect to the internet or wireless networks. He spoke during a two‑day visit to Lucknow and highlighted the scale of India's electoral exercise.
Key takeaways
- EVMs in India are described as not connected to the internet or wireless technologies by the CEC.
- The statements were made during a two‑day visit to Lucknow and a college interaction.
- Kumar linked youth engagement with democratic strength and asked 18+ voters to register.
- India’s electorate is stated to be around 100 crore voters, with many officials involved in elections.
What Happened
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stated that Indian electronic voting machines (EVMs) are manufactured by public sector companies and do not have internet, Bluetooth, or Wi‑Fi connectivity. He made these remarks during a two‑day visit to Lucknow and interactions with students at Colvin Taluqdars’ College.
Kumar emphasized that India conducts elections for a large electorate and noted the presence of a substantial workforce ensuring the electoral process runs smoothly. He urged young people to participate in the democratic process and to verify information before accepting or sharing it, particularly on social media.
Why It Matters
The CEC’s statements address questions about the security and reliability of the electoral technology used in India. By underscoring that EVMs do not connect to the internet or wireless networks, Kumar implicitly highlights safeguards intended to reduce remote manipulation or data leakage, while stressing the importance of informed civic participation among youth.
Background
The remarks come as part of Kumar’s public appearances during his stay in Lucknow. He connected his discussion of the electoral process with broader themes of voter registration and constitutional provisions, including reference to Article 326 of the Constitution as he encouraged voters aged 18 and above to register.
India’s electoral system involves a large scale operation with around 100 crore voters, and Kumar described the involvement of many officials and employees in ensuring smooth conduct of elections.
Key Facts
- Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stated EVMs are manufactured by public sector companies.
- EVMs do not have internet connectivity, nor Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi capabilities.
- Remarks were made during a two‑day visit to Lucknow, following an interaction at Colvin Taluqdars’ College.
- Kumar referenced India’s approximately 100 crore voters and the scale of the electoral process.
- He urged 18‑year‑olds to register and participate in elections, highlighting verification of information before sharing it.
What Happens Next
The report does not specify further scheduled actions beyond Kumar’s public engagements and reiterated calls for youth participation and information vetting in the digital era.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
Related stories
The Road Doctor of Hyderabad: 15 Years Fixing Potholes
Moozhiyar police convert Onam invite into aid for tribal families
SC to hear plea for CBI probe into Jharkhand exam irregularities
