Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh June 3-
The counting of votes for the Haryana Lok Sabha general elections-2024 and the Karnal Assembly by-election will begin today at 8 AM. A total of 91 counting centres have been set up across the state. The counting of postal ballots at the Returning Officer's counting centre will begin before the EVM counting. Slips from five randomly selected VVPATs will be matched in the presence of counting agents.
CEO Anurag Agarwal gave this information, stating that media centres have been set up at each counting centre for the convenience of media persons. Apart from it, a separate media centre has been established at the Chief Electoral Officer's office in Chandigarh. He mentioned that despite the heat wave, people actively exercised their franchise. The voter turnout in Haryana was recorded at 64.80 percent. He expressed gratitude to the voters of the state for this.
Sh. Agarwal stated that all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure the counting process is carried out efficiently and peacefully. The Election Commission of India has appointed counting observers at all counting centres to monitor the counting process. He informed that for any information or complaints related to the counting, one can contact the toll-free number 0172-1950, the control room telephone 0172-2701362, or email at hry_elect@yahoo.com.
Sh. Agarwal emphasized that every official, clerk, agent, or other persons involved in recording or counting votes must maintain the confidentiality of voting. Violating this is considered a crime under Section 128 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which can result in imprisonment for up to 3 months, a fine, or both.
He said that no official connected with the conduct of elections shall perform any act (other than voting) that furthers the prospects of any candidate's election. Violations are punishable under Section 129 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, with imprisonment for up to 6 months, a fine, or both. Any person who, without reasonable cause, breaches their official duty in connection with an election will be liable for a fine of up to Rs. 500 under Section 134 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Anurag Agarwal further stated that any person in the service of the Government acting as an election agent, polling agent, or counting agent of a candidate is subject to penalties under Section 134A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, including imprisonment for up to 3 months, a fine, or both. He has reiterated the importance of adherence to these guidelines to ensure a fair and transparent counting process.