Chennai Starts EVM and VVPAT Randomisation for 2026 Assembly Elections
Preparations for the 2026 Assembly elections have begun in full swing, with the first-level randomisation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units carried out on Monday in Chennai.
The process was conducted in the presence of district election officials, Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Commissioner J Kumaragurabaran, and representatives from recognised political parties to ensure transparency and fairness.
According to an official statement from the GCC, a total of 4,889 ballot units (EVMs) and control units, along with 5,295 VVPAT units, have been distributed across 16 Assembly constituencies in the city.
Among the constituencies, Velachery received the highest allocation with 376 EVMs, followed by Virugampakkam with 373 units. Harbour constituency received the lowest number, with 230 EVMs.
Officials stated that the randomisation process was carried out strictly in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI), ensuring a transparent and standardised procedure.
Following the allocation, the machines will be handed over to Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs). The EVMs and VVPAT units will then be securely stored in strong rooms within their respective constituencies under tight police protection and in the presence of political party representatives.
Once the final list of contesting candidates is confirmed, details of the machines allotted through the randomisation process will be shared with all candidates.
In addition, the GCC announced that 19,594 election personnel, including presiding officers and polling officers, will undergo training. The training will cover EVM handling, postal ballot procedures, and essential polling booth duties to ensure smooth conduct of the elections.
This step marks a key milestone in Chennai’s election preparedness, aimed at ensuring a free, fair, and well-organised Assembly election in 2026.
