Election Commission Launches Aadhaar-Based E-Sign Verification
The Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced a new e-sign feature on its ECINET portal and app in September 2025. This feature mandates identity verification through Aadhaar-linked phone numbers for voter registration, deletion, and correction requests. This move aims to enhance the security and authenticity of electoral roll management.
Introduction of ECINET Platform
ECINET is a unified platform integrating over 40 previous Election Commission mobile and web applications. It was launched during the June 2025 by-elections in Kerala, Gujarat, Punjab, and West Bengal. The platform streamlines election-related processes and data management for better efficiency.
New Aadhaar-Based E-Sign Verification
Applicants seeking to add, delete, or correct voter details must now verify their identity using the Aadhaar number linked to their phone. After filling the relevant form on ECINET, users are redirected to a Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) portal. Here, they enter their Aadhaar number and receive a one-time password (OTP) on the linked phone. Verification is completed only after the applicant consents to Aadhaar authentication, ensuring the authenticity of the request.
Previous System and Its Limitations
Earlier, forms 6, 7, and 8 could be submitted by linking a phone number to an existing Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number. However, there was no verification to confirm if the details belonged to the genuine voter. This gap led to vulnerabilities and potential misuse.
Addressing Electoral Fraud Concerns
The new e-sign feature addresses allegations of fraudulent voter list manipulations. For example, the Karnataka CID probed the removal of 5,994 voters in the Aland Assembly constituency through forged form 7 submissions. Opposition leaders have cited such cases to show the need for stricter verification mechanisms.
Impact on Election Management
ECINET has improved the speed and accuracy of election data handling. Presiding officers now upload final voter turnout figures directly on ECINET before leaving polling stations. This replaced the earlier manual process and enabled the public to access turnout trends within 72 hours of election results. The platform thus enhances transparency and real-time data dissemination.
Future Prospects
The Election Commission plans to make ECINET fully operational soon. The integration of Aadhaar-based e-sign verification is step towards securing electoral processes and preventing fraud. This move is expected to increase voter confidence and improve the integrity of voter rolls nationwide.
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