The forthcoming urban local bodies polls in Telangana witnessed an innovation as the State Election Commission (SEC) introduces a facial recognition app intended for voter verification and real-time authentication. This pioneering step is set to be executed on a trial basis in 10 chosen polling stations, marking its first application in India. The objective behind this move is to avert voter impersonation during elections.
Facial Recognition in Kompally Municipality
The initiative is ready to roll out in the Kompally Municipality of Medchal Malkajgiri district in Telangana. The SEC plans to utilize facial recognition as an auxiliary tool for validating voter identities. This validation method is proposed alongside the traditional identification procedures already in place. These include using photo electoral rolls and photo ID proof, as well as personal scrutiny by the polling agents appointed by contesting candidates.
Proposed Verification Process
An additional polling officer entrusted with a mobile phone will manage the facial recognition system. The app, upon conducting the verification, will show results based on a match between the voters’ details and the information available within the system. The voters will receive an appropriate message indicating the status of their verification.
Securing Voting Rights
However, it is important to note that inability to authenticate through this procedure does not serve as adequate grounds to deny any voter their voting rights. The facial recognition system is conceived as an additional measure rather than a replacement for existing identification methods.
Data Privacy Measures
Assuring privacy concerns, the SEC has clarified that the photographs captured during the process will not be stored or used for any other purpose. Strict data privacy measures have been enforced as these photographs are set to be deleted from the mobile phone used in the polling station, as well as from the server of TSTS (Telangana State Technology Services).
Through this innovative approach of using facial recognition technology, the SEC aims to ensure a free and fair electoral process. While this method promises potential benefits in ensuring voter authentication, it also paves the way for exploring more technological interventions in future Indian elections.