Bihar Elections to Showcase New EVM Ballot Papers with Candidate Color Photos, ECI Confirms

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced significant changes to EVM ballot papers, revising existing guidelines under Rule 49B of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. The most notable change is the inclusion of color photographs of candidates on the ballot papers, starting with the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar. The candidate’s face will be prominently displayed, occupying a substantial portion of the photo area. Candidate and NOTA serial numbers will be printed using the international form of Indian numerals. A font size of 30, in bold, will be used to ensure clear readability of the information. The ECI highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline and improve election processes, with 28 other enhancements implemented in the past six months. The ballot papers will be printed on 70 GSM paper. For Assembly elections, pink-colored paper with specific RGB values will be used. The ECI has also specified that the names of all candidates and NOTA will be printed in the same font type and size for consistent presentation and easy legibility.