36 tables sought for counting in Nizamabad

Nizamabad: Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency officials have sent a request for extra tables for counting of votes on May 23. Instead of the sanctioned 18 tables, the officials have requested the Election Commission of India to set up 36 tables for early completion of the counting of votes.

In view of the highest number of 185 candidates and ‘None of the above’ (Nota) option in electronic voting machines, counting will take more time in Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency. Reportedly, the ECI has not yet accorded permission to set up extra tables.

Reportedly, the result of Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency may be the last in the country, because the highest number of candidates are in the fray. Usually, declaration of result with EVMs is an easier task than with printed ballot papers.

Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency returning officer and district collector M. Rammohan Rao said that priority would be given to recognised parties’ counting agents in the counting halls. Counting agents of independent candidates would be allowed on rotation basis, he said. After counting of votes, VVPAT slips would be counted in each Assembly segment limits, he said.  The returning officer added that voting secrecy should be maintained by counting staff and violators would be strictly punished. He said that cell phones would not be allowed into counting halls. Counting arrangements would be completed by Monday, he said.