MARCH 3: The Election Commission of India (EC) has responded to concerns raised by social media posts and media reports regarding electors from two different states possessing identical Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers. The EC clarified that while some electors may share identical EPIC numbers, other demographic details such as their names, Assembly Constituency, and polling booth are distinct for each elector. Therefore, despite having the same EPIC number, the voters will not face any confusion as the electoral roll system ensures that they can only vote at their designated polling stations in their respective Constituencies within the state or Union Territory (UT) they are enrolled in.
The issue of duplicate EPIC numbers arose due to a decentralized and manual process used for the allotment of EPIC numbers before the migration of electoral rolls to the ERONET (Electoral Roll Network) platform. This earlier system allowed certain States and UTs to use identical alphanumeric series for EPIC numbers, creating a potential for duplication, particularly when electors in different Assembly Constituencies across various States and UTs were assigned the same number.
The EC has emphasized that, despite these similarities, each voter’s eligibility is determined by their specific electoral roll details. The problem arose due to the lack of a centralized, unified system, which was later addressed by the transition to the ERONET platform. The Commission’s decision to centralize and automate the system was a step towards eliminating such discrepancies and streamlining the electoral process.
To alleviate public concerns and prevent any confusion, the EC has now assured that steps will be taken to ensure the allotment of unique EPIC numbers to each registered elector. The EC further announced that any existing duplicate EPIC numbers will be rectified by issuing a new, unique EPIC number to those electors. The updated ERONET 2.0 platform, which is more advanced and robust, will support this process and ensure the accuracy of voter data across all states and UTs.
This clarification comes as part of the EC’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and eliminate any potential risks of confusion or fraud in the electoral process. By reinforcing the system for generating and verifying EPIC numbers, the Commission is working to strengthen the integrity of India’s electoral rolls.
The Election Commission’s initiative to guarantee a unique EPIC number for every elector is expected to further enhance the credibility of the electoral system, providing clarity and reducing any chances of misunderstandings related to voter identity. The Commission continues to encourage public engagement and vigilance to ensure a free and fair electoral process in India.
 has responded to concerns raised by social media posts and media reports regarding electors from two different states possessing identical Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers. The EC clarified that while some electors may share identical EPIC numbers){kind=link}