During her visit to India in March 2025, U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard raised general concerns about the security of electronic voting systems worldwide, particularly those connected to the internet or private networks. She emphasized the need for strong cybersecurity measures to safeguard electoral integrity.

During her visit to India in March 2025, U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard raised general concerns about the security of electronic voting systems worldwide, particularly those connected to the internet or private networks. She emphasized the need for strong cybersecurity measures to safeguard electoral integrity.

In response, the Election Commission of India (ECI) firmly clarified that Indian Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are completely standalone and not connected to any network—wired or wireless—making them secure from remote tampering or hacking. The ECI also highlighted that EVMs function like basic calculators and undergo strict testing procedures, including mock polls and cross-verification using the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system, to ensure transparency and reliability.

Gabbard’s visit also focused on strengthening strategic ties between the U.S. and India, particularly in the areas of defense, intelligence cooperation, and emerging technologies. She held discussions with key Indian leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to explore ways to deepen collaboration aligned with the broader vision of both nations.