Chandigarh News: The stage is set for counting of votes today

Chandigarh: All preparations are in place for the counting of votes for the city Lok Sabha seat to be held tomorrow at the Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology (CCET), Sector 26. The day will decide the fate of 19 candidates. The main contest is between first-time MP Sanjay Tandon of the BJP and two-time Congress MP Manish Tewari, who has earlier represented the Ludhiana and Anandpur Sahib parliamentary seats.

Sanjay Tandon, BJP and

Manish Tewari, Congress

Out of a total of 6,59,805 voters, a total of 4,48,547 voters exercised their franchise on June 1. Out of a total of 3,41,544 male voters, 2,34,525 (68.67%) exercised their franchise. Similarly, out of a total of 3,18,226 female voters, 2,13,995 (67.25%) exercised their franchise. There were a total of 35 transgenders, of whom 27 (77.14%) exercised their franchise. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Dr Vijay Namdeorao Jade has confirmed that the counting of votes will take place at Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology (CCET), Sector 26, as per the procedure laid down by the Election Commission of India. Two halls have been earmarked for the counting process at the CCET campus with a total of 42 counting tables. This setup has been strategically designed to effectively handle the counting process, which is likely to have 15 rounds. The CEO reviewed the preparations at the centre to ensure that all arrangements are in place for a systematic counting process.

Each hall is equipped with the necessary infrastructure and security arrangements to facilitate a transparent and systematic process. Apart from the regular counting tables, special provisions have been made for the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) for postal ballots. Six tables have been specifically allotted for counting under ETPBS, to ensure efficient and secure handling of postal ballots. The counting of postal ballots will begin at 8 am. First the ballot papers will be counted, followed by the counting of votes cast through EVMs at 8.30 am. All political parties have been duly informed about the location of the counting centre. All arrangements have been made at the CCET to ensure a smooth and efficient counting process. There will be a “media centre”, a “communication room” and a room for the observer. No mobile phones or other electronic devices, such as smart watches, will be allowed inside the counting room.