Bihar gets ready for the assembly elections later this year, the Election Commission (EC) is set to bring in a new, technology-based voter ID system.
After the final Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls is published on September 30, voters will start receiving new tech-enabled voter ID cards.
What Are Tech-Enabled Voter ID Cards?
These are upgraded versions of the usual Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC). The new cards will:
Feature updated photographs submitted during the SIR process.
Include advanced security features like QR codes to prevent duplication or forgery.
Be available in both physical and digital formats.
The digital version of this card is called e-EPIC (Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card).
What Is e-EPIC?
The e-EPIC is a secure, non-editable PDF version of the voter ID card.
It comes with a QR code containing details such as:
Voter’s serial number
Part number
Personal demographic information
It can be downloaded on smartphones or computers and stored digitally.
It is valid just like the physical card, so voters can use either at polling booths.
Why Is Bihar Introducing Them Now?
This update is being rolled out ahead of Bihar’s assembly elections, expected in October–November.
According to draft rolls released on August 1, Bihar has 7.24 crore voters.
The new tech-driven cards aim to:
Simplify identity verification at polling stations
Prevent impersonation
Make electoral rolls more accurate, as per the Election Commission.
How Will Voters Receive the New ID Cards?
The EC has shared a step-by-step rollout plan:
New applicants (those who submitted Form-6 with a registered mobile number) can download their e-EPICs first.
Existing voters will be allowed to download their cards in later phases, after verifying their registered mobile number.
Physical voter ID cards will also be sent out.
The EC now promises delivery within 15 days of application.
Voters will get SMS updates and can track delivery on the NVSP portal.
Why Are Tech-Enabled Voter ID Cards Important?
Speeds up the ID card issuing process
Reduces voter fraud and impersonation risks
Supports the goals of Digital India
If a voter forgets the physical card, the digital version is also valid
The Election Commission believes this digital step will modernize the voting process, improve efficiency, and help ensure free and fair elections in the state.
