Agartala: Over 1,200 officials have been deployed for the counting of Lok Sabha votes in the West Parliamentary constituency in Tripura, with stringent three-tier security measures in place.
Dr. Vishal Kumar, the Returning Officer (RO) for the West Parliamentary Constituency, told reporters that the counting of votes will commence on June 4 at 8 AM. This will include votes from the West Parliamentary Constituency and the Ramnagar Assembly Constituency, where a by-poll was recently held.
Today, the RO and Counting Observer, along with security personnel, conducted a review of the counting halls.
The Umakanta Academy in Agartala, the state’s largest counting center, will handle the counting of votes from 14 Assembly segments.
Dr. Kumar stated that all preparations are complete, with 28 postal ballot tables set up.
Approximately 1,200 counting staff and 1,000 counting agents from various political parties will be present. Comprehensive arrangements for administration, security, fire services, and medical facilities have been made, considering the weather. Dr Kumar expressed hope for a smooth conclusion to the counting process and mentioned ongoing communication with political parties and candidates.
The counting of votes for the Ramnagar by-election will also take place simultaneously.
“We aim to complete the entire counting process by 5 PM,” Dr. Kumar added, noting that the premises will be fully secured by Tripura Police and the Tripura State Rifles (TSR).
The Counting Observer confirmed that all arrangements adhere to the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines. “I believe the counting will be conducted peacefully, with an adequate number of security personnel deployed. Training for micro observers and polling staff has been completed,” he said.