Karachi, The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) today issued a clarification that it does not upload electoral rolls on its website, citing the protection of personal voter data and the risk of cyber-attacks from hostile entities as primary reasons.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the ECP’s statement came in response to a news story by Kalbe Ali in the daily DAWN. The commission emphasized that obtaining both hard and soft copies of electoral rolls is governed by specific procedures outlined in the Elections Act 2017 and Election Rules 2017. Importantly, the election law does not permit the uploading of electoral rolls on the ECP’s website.

The ECP also noted that electoral rolls contain sensitive personal information, including names, identity card numbers, and photos of voters. Such details, if made publicly accessible, could be misused by anti-state organizations. This concern underscores the ECP’s commitment to safeguarding the privacy and security of Pakistani citizens.

To facilitate public access to voter information, the ECP has introduced an SMS Service. Voters can verify their details by sending their CNIC Number to 8300, a measure that balances accessibility with security.

Furthermore, the ECP clarified that electoral rolls are compiled under Joint Electorates in accordance with the law, rather than on the basis of religion. This approach reflects the commission’s adherence to legal and ethical standards in managing electoral data.

The ECP reassured that candidates or any other individuals can obtain copies of the electoral rolls, following the established procedures. This clarification by the ECP aims to inform the public and dispel any misconceptions regarding the accessibility and security of electoral data.