As the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections 2024 approaches on June 4, North Tripura District Magistrate and Returning Officer Debapriya Bardhan held a crucial meeting with journalists on Wednesday. Emphasizing the need for a free, fair, and violence-free counting process, Bardhan outlined extensive preparations to ensure transparency and security.
The Returning Officer detailed that four counting centers have been established in North Tripura District: one each in Dharmanagar and Panisagar, and two in Kanchanpur. To maintain order, a restricted zone within a 100-meter radius of each counting center will prohibit vehicle movement. Journalists and other authorized personnel must display identification to enter the premises.
Bardhan specified that journalists will be permitted to use mobile phones and other equipment only within the designated media center at each venue. Round-wise results will be announced via loudspeakers to ensure transparency.
“The administration has conducted extensive meetings with various Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) at the sub-divisional level. Additionally, the State Chief Electoral Officer has inspected the counting centers to ensure readiness,” Bardhan stated.
Security during the counting process will be handled by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the State Armed Police, ensuring a seamless and secure environment. The police administration is also actively engaging with political leaders to prevent any disturbances following the declaration of results.
Bardhan further explained the logistics at each center, highlighting that one hall will accommodate 14 tables, another will have 11 tables, and the remaining halls will each have 10 tables. He urged political parties to maintain peace and order during the counting process to uphold the integrity of the election.
