The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially commenced the crucial process of commissioning Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units. This significant step, which began on Thursday, April 16, 2026, marks a key phase in preparing for the upcoming Assembly elections. The exercise is currently underway in various constituencies across Tamil Nadu and for the first phase of polling in West Bengal. This meticulous procedure is vital to ensure transparency and integrity in the democratic electoral system as the states prepare for voting day.

What Happened?

On April 16, 2026, the Election Commission of India initiated the process of commissioning EVMs and VVPATs. This involves carefully inserting ballot papers, which contain candidate names and symbols, into the voting machines. The process also includes thorough checks with the VVPAT system to ensure accuracy and voter verification. An example of this detailed work was seen in the Vellore Assembly Constituency, where officials meticulously prepared the machines.

Following this initial setup, a mock poll will be conducted. This important step involves casting 1,000 dummy votes in 5% of the randomly selected EVMs. Candidates or their authorized representatives will be present during these mock polls. Their presence helps to build confidence and ensures transparency throughout the process. This rigorous verification is a standard practice designed to confirm that the machines are functioning correctly and are ready for actual voting.

These preparations are happening just ahead of the key voting dates. Tamil Nadu is set to cast its votes in a single phase on April 23, 2026. West Bengal, a larger state, will hold its elections in two phases, on April 23 and April 29, 2026. Meanwhile, political campaigns are in full swing. On the same day, BJP leader K. Annamalai held a campaign in Tiruchirappalli, supporting AIADMK candidate P Kumar for the Thiruverumbur constituency. This highlights the intense political activity accompanying the electoral preparations. Separately, the Supreme Court has ruled that voters in West Bengal cleared by tribunals by April 21 or 27 will be eligible to vote in the Assembly polls. The results for these elections, along with those from Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, are all expected to be announced on May 4, 2026.

Key Highlights

The Election Commission of India began the commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs on April 16, 2026.
This crucial process covers constituencies in Tamil Nadu and the first phase of elections in West Bengal.
Officials are inserting ballot papers with candidate names and symbols into EVMs and verifying them with VVPATs.
A subsequent mock poll involving 1,000 votes will be conducted in 5% of randomly chosen EVMs, with candidate representatives present.
Voting in Tamil Nadu is scheduled for April 23, 2026, while West Bengal will vote on April 23 and April 29, 2026.
Political campaigning is active, with leaders like K. Annamalai holding rallies and party leaders like Stalin making statements.
All election results, including those for Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, are anticipated to be declared on May 4, 2026.

Why Does This Matter?

The commencement of EVM and VVPAT commissioning is a cornerstone of India's democratic process. It directly impacts every voter by ensuring that their ballot is cast accurately and counted fairly. The rigorous checks and balances, including the mock polls and VVPAT verification, are designed to eliminate doubts about the integrity of the voting machines. This transparency is crucial for maintaining public trust in the election system. When citizens have confidence that their vote truly matters, it strengthens the very foundation of democracy and encourages greater participation in shaping their future.

These Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, among other states, are highly significant. They will determine the next state governments and directly influence policies that affect daily life, from education and healthcare to infrastructure and economic development. For the common person, the outcomes of these elections will dictate who represents their interests and how local issues are addressed. The ECI's diligent work ensures that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to exercise their franchise effectively, leading to a legitimate and widely accepted mandate for the incoming governments. This entire process underscores the strength and resilience of India's democratic framework.