DEOs keep close eye on strongrooms ahead of results
Ahead of the counting of votes for the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, District Election Officers (DEOs) across the region are ensuring that all necessary measures are in place for a smooth and transparent process. With heightened focus on security, transparency, and efficient logistics, DEOs in Srinagar, Jammu, Kathua, and Samba have taken proactive steps to ensure the integrity of the counting process and safeguard the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
In Srinagar, DEO Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat conducted a detailed review of the arrangements at the SKICC-Centaur, where the counting of votes for eight Assembly constituencies of Srinagar District will take place. The DEO, accompanied by key officials, inspected the preparations in and around the counting centres, including surveillance and security measures, seating arrangements, and the transportation of EVMs. He emphasised the importance of ensuring transparency, accuracy, and timely results, as well as the need for uninterrupted power supply, proper internet access, media management, and secure entry passes.
The EVMs are currently under a three-layer security cordon at SKICC-Centaur following the completion of voting. The DEO assured that the counting process will adhere strictly to Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines and will be conducted under video surveillance to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
Meanwhile, in Kathua, robust measures have been implemented to maintain transparency and accountability. The District Election Office has established a dedicated 24/7 control room at the Government Degree College (Boys), Kathua, the designated counting centre for six Assembly segments. This facility provides live CCTV feeds from the strongrooms where EVMs are securely stored, ensuring real-time monitoring and access to election agents and authorised representatives of the candidates. Regular visits to the strongrooms are permitted, further minimising concerns regarding the safety and security of the machines.
Similarly, Samba DEO Rajesh Sharma along with Samba SSP Vinay Kumar inspected strongrooms where EVMs from the Ramgarh, Samba, and Vijaypur constituencies are stored.
With the counting of votes scheduled for October 8, DEOs across Jammu and Kashmir are leaving no stone unturned in preparing for a seamless and transparent counting process, reflecting the region’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.
