Nagaon: A significant initiative by the Election Commission has begun in Nagaon, with the primary objective of creating awareness among voters about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). On February 9, 2026, the Nagaon district administration launched an extensive EVM and VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) demonstration programme aimed at enhancing transparency in the electoral process and strengthening public trust (EVM VVPAT Awareness Drive).
This initiative has been undertaken in accordance with the directions issued by the Election Commission of India and the Chief Electoral Officer of Assam (vide letter no. ELE 32/2025/129) dated 30th January. The main objective is to clearly explain to the public the entire technical process of how votes are cast and how their authenticity is verified. Officials have expressed hope that this effort will help dispel any doubts regarding the reliability of voting machines.
Hands-on Experience at a Permanent Demonstration Centre
The central focus of this democratic awareness campaign is a permanent EVM Demonstration Centre (EDC) set up at the office of the District Election Officer, Nagaon. This centre will function like a learning hub for voters. Here, citizens will not only be able to see the machines but will also get the opportunity to test their functionality by casting “mock votes” themselves.
Voters will gain first-hand experience of how the VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) system works and how, after casting a vote, a paper slip showing the selected symbol is generated. The demonstration centre will remain open to the general public on all working days from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Taking Democratic Awareness Door to Door
The administration has acknowledged that it may not be possible for everyone to visit the district headquarters. Therefore, a decision has been taken to take the voting machines directly to the people. Mobile Demonstration Vans have been deployed across the district’s seven legislative constituencies. These “moving classrooms” will visit the following locations to raise awareness among the public:
Local markets and commercial centres
Schools and colleges to attract new voters
Public gatherings and traditional polling station areas
District officials have invited not only voters but also representatives of political parties and members of the media to actively participate in this process. They believe that when every section of society clearly understands the technical aspects of these machines, a broad-based public confidence in the electoral process will naturally be built.
Whether you are a first-time voter or an experienced citizen, the message from the Nagaon administration is loud and clear: come and see for yourself how your valuable vote is kept secure.
Nagaon DC Devashish Sharma Targeted in Cyber Fraud Using Fake Social Media Accounts