117 counting centres in the state, located in 48 buildings and at 27 locations

Chandigarh, June 3:  Mohit Sharma ) The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab, Sibin C, has informed that the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha Elections will commence at 8:00 AM on 4 June, 2024. A total of 64 counting observers, drawn from All India Services and Civil Services cadre of various states, will oversee the counting process.

The Election Commission of India has tasked these experienced officials with ensuring transparent, efficient, and guideline-adherent vote counting.

We have established 117 counting centres.

Sibin C divulged the details about the counting centres, stating that they have established a total of 117 counting centres in the state, located in 48 buildings and at 27 locations.

He added that while district headquarters situate most of these locations, 7 locations, including Ajnala, Baba Bakala, Abohar, Malout, Dhuri, Chhokra Rahon-Nawan Shahr, and Khooni Majra (Kharar), are outside district headquarters.

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

A double lock system secures strong rooms

The CEO emphasized prioritizing the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the strong rooms at these counting centres. They secure these strong rooms with a double lock system and continuous CCTV surveillance.

Representatives of political parties and authorised personnel can monitor security through LED screens placed outside each strong room. These screens display live footage of the surroundings. Additionally, on-duty personnel maintain a visitor register to record all visits, while an official conducts daily inspections to ensure compliance with all protocols.

 Three Tier Security established around Counting centres

          Sibin C apprised that they have implemented a comprehensive three-tier security system around the counting centres. They have strictly restricted access to the counting centres, allowing entry only to accredited individuals. They have equipped the counting centres 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.