Bagalkot: All preparations have been finalized for the vote counting of the Bagalkot Assembly byelection, which is scheduled to take place at the University of Horticultural Sciences on Monday, May 4. District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner Sangappa made this announcement on Saturday.
Counting Schedule and Security Measures
Sangappa stated that counting will commence at 8 am, with candidates, election agents, and counting agents instructed to be present by 7 am. "The security room will be opened in the presence of election observers, candidates, and agents," he said.
Arrangements for EVM and Postal Ballot Counting
For EVM counting, 14 tables have been arranged in Room No. 4 on the ground floor. One table in Room No. 9 on the ground floor has been designated for counting of postal ballots, while another table in the same room will be used for scanning of ETBPS. "Each table will have one counting supervisor, one counting assistant, and a micro observer. An assistant election officer will be present at each table," Sangappa explained.
A separate table has been arranged for QR code scanning of postal ballots received from service voters, with one scanning supervisor, one assistant, and two assistant election officers appointed. A total of 63 staff members, including reserve personnel, have been assigned to the counting process.
Public Address System and Parking Arrangements
A public address system has been installed to announce details of each round. Separate parking has been arranged for candidates and their agents on the eastern side of the venue. Counting agents will not be allowed through the main gate. Parking for their vehicles has been arranged about 200 meters away via the road opposite the district veterinary hospital. Only staff and media personnel will be allowed through the main gate.
Prohibitory Order and Mobile Phone Ban
Mobile phones are prohibited inside the counting centre. Additionally, a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Safety Code 2023 will be in force from 6 am on May 4 to 6 am on May 5. The sale and supply of liquor will be prohibited within a 10-km radius of the Bagalkot assembly constituency from 6 am to midnight on May 4.
