Counting of votes for MC polls today

The Haryana State Election Commission (HSEC) has completed all arrangements for the counting of votes for the general and byelections to municipal bodies across the state.

A spokesperson for the Commission said directions had been issued to all District Election Officers and Returning Officers to ensure that the counting process is conducted in a fair, transparent, peaceful and orderly manner.

The counting of votes will begin at 8 am on May 13 at designated counting centres, the spokesperson said.

“Extensive and robust security arrangements have been made at all counting centres. Only authorised persons will be allowed entry at the counting venues,” the spokesperson said.

The Commission has ensured CCTV surveillance, barricading, deployment of adequate police force and availability of all basic facilities at the centres.

The spokesperson said special police security would be provided for the transportation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from strong rooms to counting centres to ensure their safe movement.

Special checking drives will also be carried out around the counting centres to prevent the carrying of weapons and any suspicious activity. Unnecessary gathering of people near the centres will not be permitted and strict action will be taken against anyone creating disturbance or noise, the spokesperson added.

The Commission appealed to candidates, election agents and supporters to cooperate with the administration in maintaining law and order during the counting process and not pay heed to rumours.

General Observers and Returning Officers have been deployed at every counting centre to ensure prompt resolution of complaints, queries and other issues during the counting process. Candidates, election agents and authorised individuals may approach the officers concerned for clarifications or to address grievances.