The discovery of nearly 10,000 genuine electors photo identity cards (EPICs) in one place has left many wondering how prevalent is the practice of stockpiling the cards before elections. The practice is widespread and has been around since at least the 2008 Assembly elections. He explained the modus operandi: a local leader in the slum collects EPICs of all people he has influence over. As proof, he hands over the EPICs to the candidate’s agents, who pays the slum leader money for the votes. The slum leader is responsible for mobilising and bringing these people to the booth on the polling day.

Source: The Hindu May 09, 2018 20:03 UTC