Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh High Court issued interim orders on Friday prohibiting the use of SEC’s app e-Watch, till February 9. At the same time, it allowed the Andhra Pradesh Technology Services Limited (APTS) officials to examine the SEC app.

A division bench of the HC comprising Chief Justice Arup Kumar Goswami and Justice C Praveen Kumar, sought to know what problems does the SEC have in using the apps developed by the Government or the Election Commission.

The bench further questioned why the SEC has launched the new app though the Model Code of Conduct came into force from January 8, and who will benefit from it. The court opined that the case warrants an in- depth hearing and adjourned it to February 9 as it will take five days for examining the new app by APTS officials.

Presenting his arguments, advocate S Sarath appearing for the petitioners, said the Election Commission of India has already developed c-Vigil app to monitor the election process. He wondered as to why the SEC had kept aside the app developed by the ECI, when it can be used for sending photos and videos of any poll code violations such as distribution of cash, liquor etc.

He further pointed out that the State Government has developed a similar app Nigha and both the apps have cyber security clearance. Stating that people are not aware of e-Watch developed by the SEC, which was unilaterally decided by the commission, he said they have apprehensions over its security. He argued that without a security audit, launching the app is illegal.