Never-Before Security For Counting In AP

Tomorrow, the counting of the Indian General Election votes will be held across the country. In Andhra Pradesh, counting will be conducted for both assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

Violence erupted in various regions across the state during and after polling. Thus, the Election Commission has implemented tight security arrangements for the counting tomorrow to prevent any kind of violent activities.

The state’s Chief Electoral Officer, Mukesh Kumar Meena, stated that the Election Commission took AP seriously after witnessing significant violence post-polling. He also stated that strict action was taken against the culprits.

To avoid such incidents during the counting, the EC decided on May 16th to send 25 extra security teams for the counting.

A special focus has been put on areas like Tirupati and Palnadu, which witnessed severe violence after polling.

Initially, 21 teams were assigned for the security of counting centres and strong rooms. Later, 25 extra teams were assigned. Now, another 21 teams have been deployed.

In total, 67 teams have been deployed by the Election Commission for the security of strong rooms and to maintain law and order during the counting.

Mukesh Kumar Meena said there will be a three-tier system to control law and order at the counting centres. In the first tier, there will be central forces, AP Special Police forces will be in the second tier, and in the third tier, there will be normal police officers.

The area surrounding the counting centres will be declared red zones and no one is allowed beyond the third tier of security. Section 144 will be implemented in the area surrounding counting centres. CCTV cameras will be placed in the counting rooms and the premises of the counting centres.

The counting of the votes will begin at 8 am tomorrow across the country.