Ahmedabad, April 24: The electronic voting machines (EVMs) and VVPAT units used in the Umreth by-election in Gujarat have been sealed following the conclusion of voting. They are now securely stored in a strong room. Voting took place at 306 polling stations in the constituency on Thursday.
After voting ended, all EVMs and VVPAT machines were transported to the strong room in the presence of candidates or their representatives, along with election commission observers. This process was monitored through videography to ensure transparency.
According to Gujarat’s Chief Electoral Officer, Sandeep Sangale, the machines have been secured in compliance with election commission regulations. A two-tier armed security arrangement has been established for this purpose. Armed personnel are stationed on-site, and CCTV cameras are continuously monitoring the area.
Additionally, reserve EVMs and VVPAT machines have been placed in a separate strong room under strict security. The election commission had previously informed all candidates that they could send representatives to oversee the security arrangements, although access was limited to the outer security perimeter.
In a related note, on the same Thursday, Odisha recorded maximum temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in 24 cities, with Jharsuguda and Talcher being the hottest at 44 degrees Celsius. By 11:30 AM on Friday, temperatures in Jharsuguda had already surpassed 40 degrees Celsius, with many other regions experiencing similar heat levels.
Due to the intense heat, street crowds significantly diminished after 11 AM, as most people chose to stay indoors to avoid the severe heat. Reports of heat-related illnesses have also emerged in several parts of the state. In response, district collectors have ordered the closure of schools. Furthermore, the government has adjusted census-related work, halting it from 11 AM to 3 PM to protect workers from the heat.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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