In Nagpur, the district administration has transformed 27 election strongrooms into high-security fortresses. This drastic measure comes after the Bombay High Court ordered a stay on the declaration of results for the recently held local body polls. The results, initially scheduled for December 3, will now not be announced until at least December 21.
Multi-Layered Security Blanket for EVMs
Each of the 27 strongrooms, dedicated to one Municipal Council or Nagar Panchayat, is now a controlled zone. Security protocols are stringent, following the strict storage guidelines issued by the State Election Commission (SEC). A senior police official overseeing the arrangements confirmed that a layered policing model is in effect.
The security deployment includes one squad from the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) stationed on the premises, complemented by personnel from the local police. Commanding each strongroom's security is an officer of the rank of Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) or above. Every entry point to these rooms has been sealed shut.
Transparency and Surveillance Mechanisms
Officials emphasize that transparency is a core part of the security plan. Every single movement near the storage area is meticulously logged. The record includes the exact time, name, and purpose of entry of any individual granted access.
Furthermore, any authorized entry into the strongroom must be made in the presence of at least two people. This includes a political representative, if they choose to be present, and two officers from the revenue department. Their continuous presence acts as a check and balance.
Surveillance has been intensified with dozens of CCTV cameras providing constant live feeds. These cameras monitor corridors, entry gates, and the main storage halls, with footage displayed on monitors for real-time observation.
Internal Safeguards and Double-Lock System
Inside the strongrooms, the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) trunks are stored according to Election Commission instructions. They are stacked on wooden platforms, with control units, ballot units, and reserve equipment kept separately.
To prevent any unauthorized access, a double-lock system has been employed. The keys to these locks are held by two different senior officials: the Deputy Collector (Elections) and an officer of Tehsildar rank. Both must be present to open the storage.
Vinod Jadhao, a senior district administration official overseeing the elections, stated that all necessary arrangements are being ensured for the extended storage period. "CCTV surveillance will be increased," Jadhao said. He added that arrangements would also be made for monitors and seating for political representatives who wish to keep watch on the machines from outside the strongrooms.
The administration's robust response underscores the critical importance of securing the electoral process. With the stay in place until December 21, these fortress-like strongrooms in Nagpur will remain on high alert, safeguarding the integrity of the local body election results.
