The ECI recently clarified that having the same Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number doesn't mean there are duplicate or fake voters. It came after concerns were raised on social media about electors in different states having identical EPIC numbers.

• About EPIC: Issued under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 to prevent impersonation in elections. Introduced in 1993 by state governments for registered voters.
• Nature & Features: An identity document, not a voting right; only electors listed in the electoral roll can vote.

o Contains: Name, age, residence, photograph of the elector.

o Facsimile signature of the registration officer.

• Unique EPIC Number: As per the EC’s Manual on Electoral Rolls, 2023, every EPIC has a unique alphanumeric number (three alphabetical codes + seven-digit number).

o Introduced through ERONET portal (2017) for online generation of EPICs.