Assembly polls: EC orders videography of entire counting process

New Delhi: In order to ensure proper security and foolproof arrangements for the counting of votes for elections held in five states, the Election Commission has ordered among a series of measures that the entire counting process must be video-graphed. According to the poll panel directives, it has also been ordered that the Control Units and Ballot Units meant for use at the election shall be separately taken to Returning Officer's strong room under proper escort and ought to be guarded round the clock.

"At the time of sealing the strong room, the representatives of political parties can remain present and they can also affix their seal on the lock. For this purpose recognised National and State level political parties should be intimated in writing in advance," a statement from the EC said. The counting of votes for elections held in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur will take tomorrow. The EC order said, the strong rooms should have only one entry point and double lock system. "One key should be kept with Returning Officer and the other with Assistant Returning Officer of concerned Assembly constituency.

 Other entry points of the strong rooms (including windows) should be sealed in such a way that no one has access inside the strong rooms," it said adding, "the entry point of strong room having EVMs shall have CCTV coverage round the clock". The poll panel has also ordered that the CD of the recording should be kept in safe custody of the district election officer and "Video coverage shall be ensured at every stage of counting". Among other things, the videography should also indicate the date and time and the unedited video CDs should be sealed, clearly labeling all the details contained therein.

Apart from this, the Commission has also issued additional instructions with regard to Punjab, Goa and Manipur more particularly on security protocol of strong rooms while making the barricading arrangements and other preparatory work for the counting hall. The order also said, "For counting day, CCTV must be strategically placed so that all movements of personnel carrying control units is covered and displayed on TV, placed at Returning Officer's table and at some place where candidates, counting agents can also view the movement of control units from Strong Room to the Counting Hall." (UNI)