In an unusual turn of events during the Karnataka bypolls, the counting of votes in the Davanagere South constituency was delayed after keys to the strongrooms containing postal ballots went missing. Authorities were forced to employ a hammer and chisel to gain access to the strongrooms, causing a 30-minute delay in the counting process.
Counting Delayed by 30 Minutes
The counting of postal ballots was scheduled to commence at 7:30 am on Tuesday. However, when officials arrived at the counting center, they discovered that the keys to the strongrooms were nowhere to be found. As a result, the counting process could not begin on time.
After a brief search, election officials decided to break open the locks using a hammer and chisel. The strongrooms were eventually opened, and the counting of postal ballots began at 8:00 am, half an hour behind schedule.
Security Measures Under Scrutiny
The incident has raised questions about the security protocols in place for the storage of election materials. Strongrooms are meant to be secure facilities where ballots are stored under lock and key until counting day. The disappearance of keys has prompted concerns about the handling of sensitive election materials.
Election Commission officials have assured that all ballots were safe and that the delay did not affect the integrity of the counting process. An inquiry has been ordered to determine how the keys went missing and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Political Reactions
The delay drew sharp reactions from political parties. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, which are contesting the bypolls, expressed concerns over the lapse. Leaders from both parties called for a thorough investigation and demanded that those responsible be held accountable.
Congress spokesperson said, "This is a serious matter. The missing keys could have compromised the security of ballots. We urge the Election Commission to conduct a detailed probe."
BJP leaders echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to election protocols.
Counting Resumes Normally
Despite the initial hiccup, counting of votes proceeded smoothly after the strongrooms were opened. Officials reported that the counting of postal ballots was completed without further issues, and the counting of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) votes began as per schedule.
The bypolls were held in several constituencies across Karnataka, and the results are expected to have implications for the political landscape in the state. The delay in Davanagere South, while brief, highlighted the importance of meticulous planning in election management.
