Three tier security at strong rooms, says Vikas Raj

Hyderabad: Confirming that there would be no need for repolling, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vikas Raj on Friday said that three-tier security forces have been deployed at all strong rooms. A total 70 per cent of polling was reported and the returning officers and presiding officers are scrutinising the polling process.

Speaking to media persons on Friday, Vikas Raj said three-tier security has been deployed at the strong rooms to prevent untoward incidents. While central agencies deployed at the first stage at strong rooms, the state police deployed at second- and third-layer security.

"The poll counting will start at 8 am on December 3 and staff will count postal ballot papers. Around 8.30 am, the counting of EVMs will begin in the presence of candidates and their agents," Vikas Raj said.

The CEO further stated that while the overall state reported around 70 per cent of polling, 79 constituencies witnessed 75 per cent of polling. The highest polling was reported from Munugode with 91 per cent and Yakutpura being the lowest with 46 per cent turnout. The CEO said that they would analyse the reasons for apathy among urban voters in Hyderabad. He also revealed that polling was held at several constituencies till 9.30 pm on Thursday.

For the first time, he said EC officials have set up special polling stations at Nallamala forest area for tribals and a polling station was set up even in the hamlet having 26 votes.

At least 1.8 lakh postal ballots were received from employees at different places compared to one lakh in the 2018 election. The CEO said that good response was evoked from senior citizens, persons with disabilities and for implementing a vote from home facility.

Around 40 companies of central forces have been deployed at strong rooms for security reasons. The candidates can collect CCTV footage if there are any doubts at strong rooms.