First randomization of EVMs for Ghatsila Assembly By-Election

Jamshedpur: In preparation for the upcoming Ghatsila Assembly (ST) by-election 2025, the first randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) was carried out at the Collectorate Auditorium, Jamshedpur, under the supervision of District Election Officer (DEO) Karn Satyarthi. The exercise was conducted transparently in the presence of representatives from various political parties, ensuring adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Before initiating the randomization, the District Election Officer briefed the representatives about the Model Code of Conduct, the nomination process, and the procedure for purchase and submission of nomination forms. He emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and compliance with all electoral norms to ensure a free, fair, and impartial election process.

During the session, the DEO explained in detail the purpose of EVM randomization — a crucial process undertaken to eliminate any possibility of bias or pre-selection. He stated that the allocation of Ballot Units (BUs), Control Units (CUs), and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) was done through a computerized randomization system, ensuring complete impartiality.

In the first phase of randomization, 390 Ballot Units, 390 Control Units, and 420 VVPAT machines were allocated for the 300 polling stations across the Ghatsila Assembly constituency. This includes both the machines to be used at the polling stations and those kept in reserve for contingencies. The next phase of randomization — which will involve booth-wise allocation of EVMs — has been scheduled for October 30, 2025.

The DEO further informed that after the completion of the second randomization, all EVMs will be verified, sealed, and stored securely under strict three-tier security arrangements. Political party representatives will again be invited to witness the process, ensuring full transparency at every stage.

Several senior officials were present during the event, including Deputy Election Officer  Priyanka Singh, Officer-in-Charge of the EVM Cell  Mujahid Ansari, ADIO  Poonam Sinha, and EDM  Manish Prasad, along with other members of the election team.

Representatives from political parties expressed satisfaction with the smooth and transparent manner in which the randomization was carried out. The District Election Officer reiterated that the district administration is committed to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and maintaining a level playing field for all contesting candidates.

The Ghatsila Assembly by-election 2025 is being viewed as a significant political event in the East Singhbhum district, and preparations are being conducted with utmost diligence to ensure a peaceful and credible polling exercise.