Bhopal: Following the peaceful conclusion of the polling process across all seven seats of the Bhopal constituencies, the electronic voting machines (EVMs) have been securely stored in strongrooms under a three-layered surveillance system equipped with cameras. The EVMs, placed in strongrooms throughout the state, are scheduled to be opened on December 3 for the counting of votes.
“All machines were transported to the strongrooms by the morning of November 18. These strongrooms were sealed in the presence of candidates, observers, and other senior officials,” stated the Election Commission. The EC emphasized that strict security protocols are being adhered to, with no one, including returning officers, permitted to enter without a mobile phone and proper entry in the register.
Returning officers and the polling team continued to submit EVMs until 3 am on Saturday. The EVMs were safely stored in the strongroom under the vigilant supervision of security guards and CCTV cameras by 8 am on Saturday. The polling team consistently returned to Lal Parade Ground and MVM ground until 8 pm on Friday, completing the submission of all materials by Saturday morning. Both grounds were meticulously organized to facilitate the submission of voting materials, ensuring the team faced no inconvenience. After the EVMs were submitted, they were safely transported to the strongroom located in the Old Prison.
District Collector Ashish Singh, BMC Commissioner Nobel Frank A, ADM Prakash Singh Chauhan, Deputy Election Officer Ravishankar Rai, and other officials were present at the site to guarantee the safety of the EVMs. Armed forces have been deployed at the strongroom to ensure the security of the EVMs, and CCTV cameras are in place for monitoring.
