The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to introduce a QR code-based photo identity card system and a three-layer security protocol at counting centers for the upcoming vote counting scheduled on May 4. This initiative will be implemented for the first time during the counting of votes for Assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, alongside bypolls in seven constituencies across five states. The QR code system aims to tighten access control, ensuring that only authorized individuals, such as candidates, polling agents, and election officials, can enter the counting halls. Each authorized person will be issued a QR code-enabled ID card, which will be scanned at multiple security checkpoints. This hybrid approach combines digital verification with human oversight to enhance security while maintaining efficiency. The ECI has rolled out over 30 measures in the past year to modernize election processes, reflecting a gradual shift towards digitization. The initiative is particularly significant in politically sensitive states like West Bengal, where unauthorized access could lead to speculation and mistrust during closely contested elections. The ECI emphasizes that this added layer of security will not compromise transparency, as journalists will still be allowed entry based on existing guidelines.