Tutorial: How to Seal the EVM
Note: This tutorial specifically covers the sealing of the Control Unit (CU), which is the "brain" of the machine.
1. The Pre-Poll Clearance
Before sealing, you must ensure the mock poll data is erased.
Press the 'Clear' button. The display should show '0' for all candidates.
Show this to all polling agents present as proof that the "electronic ballot box" is empty.
2. The Green Paper Seal
The Green Paper Seal is the most vital security feature. It has a unique serial number.
Insert the seal into the frame of the inner door of the Result Section.
Ensure the green side is visible through the windows of the inner door.
Polling agents should sign the back of this seal before it is fixed.
3. Closing the Inner Compartment
Close the inner door of the Result Section.
Pass a thread through the holes provided in the latch.
Secure the thread with an Address Tag (which contains the Polling Station No. and Unit ID).
Apply Wax Seal on the thread/knot.
4. The Outer Strip Seal (The Final Layer)
Once the inner door is locked, the outer door is closed, and the Strip Seal (usually a long adhesive strip) is wrapped around the unit.
The strip seal ensures that the "Result" and "Print" buttons cannot be accessed without breaking the seal.
A, B, C, D Method: Most seals have four adhesive points labeled A, B, C, and D. You fold them in sequence over the Green Paper Seal to create a tamper-proof "sandwich."
5. Post-Poll: The 'Close' Seal
At the end of the day, the 'Close' button (usually hidden under a small cap) is pressed.
A small cap is placed over the Close button.
The entire unit is placed in its carrying case.
The carrying case is sealed with another Address Tag and signed by the Presiding Officer and agents.
Best Practices for Polling Officers
> Pro Tip: Always record the serial numbers of every seal used in your "Presiding Officer’s Diary." If a seal number doesn't match at the counting center, the machine may be invalidated.