Security of EVMs in strong rooms given utmost priority: Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab

The counting of votes for the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab will begin at 117 counting centres at 8 am on Tuesday, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab, Sibin C said.

A total of 64 counting observers, drawn from the All India Services and Civil Services cadres of various states, will oversee the counting process.

"These experienced officials have been tasked with ensuring that the counting of votes is conducted transparently, efficiently, and in strict adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India," he said.

Divulging the details about counting centres, Sibin C said that a total of 117 counting centres have been established in the state, in 48 buildings and at 27 locations.

"While most of these locations are situated in district headquarters, 7 locations are outside district headquarters, including Ajnala, Baba Bakala, Abohar, Malout, Dhuri, Chhokra Rahon-Nawan Shahr and Khooni Majra (Kharar)," he added.

He further informed that the counting will not be conducted at the district headquarters in Sangrur and Nawan Shahr.

The CEO stated that the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the strong rooms at these counting centres has been given utmost priority.

"These strong rooms are secured with a double lock system and are under continuous CCTV surveillance.

Representatives of political parties and authorised personnel can monitor the security through LED screens placed outside each strong room, displaying live footage of the surroundings.

Additionally, a visitor register is maintained by on-duty personnel to record all visits and an official conducts daily inspections to ensure compliance with all protocols," he said.

Regarding the security of the counting centres, Sibin C apprised that a comprehensive three-tier security system has been implemented around the counting centres.

"Access to the counting centres has been strictly restricted, with only accredited individuals allowed entry," he added.

The counting centres are equipped with CCTV cameras for extensive monitoring.

Additionally, Quick response teams are in place to manage any incidents promptly, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.