Supreme Court discusses online access to voter data

The Supreme Court of India is considering a request for online access to voter turnout data from polling booths. The request arises from two public interest litigations (PILs) filed by TMC MP Mahua Moitra and an NGO called Association for Democratic Reforms. During a hearing, the court learned that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is open to discussing this request. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan were present to review the case. The petitioners are asking for the voter turnout data to be uploaded on the ECI's website within 48 hours after polling ends. The lawyer for the Election Commission mentioned that the new Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, is willing to meet the petitioners to address their concerns. The Chief Justice encouraged the petitioners to submit their representation to the Election Commission within ten days. The court plans to continue the hearing during the week of July 28. In May of the previous year, the court had asked the ECI for its opinion on the matter. At that time, the Commission voiced concerns that releasing the data could disrupt the electoral process and create confusion during elections.