As the Lok Sabha General Election 2024 reaches its culmination, the District Election Office has released a detailed schedule for the vote counting process on June 04. To ensure a smooth and transparent procedure, the following timeline has been established: Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) and postal ballot strong rooms will be opened from 4:00 am. EVM strong room will be open at 7: 00 am. Final acceptance of postal ballots from service voters at 7:59 am. 8:00 am Counting of ETBPS and postal ballots will commence. 8:30 am Counting of EVM votes will begin.

For assembly-wise counting, the following arrangements have been made:- 14 tables for 44-Baharagora- 15 tables for 45-Ghatshila - 16 tables for 46-Potka - 20 tables for 47-Jugsalai- 19 tables for 48-Jamshedpur East - 16 tables for 49-Jamshedpur West

The district administration, under the guidance of District Election Officer Ananya Mittal, has implemented stringent measures to ensure that the counting process is fair and transparent, with all necessary precautions in place.

As the Lok Sabha General Election 2024 finale draws to a close, preparations for the counting of votes have been meticulously arranged. District Election Officer  Ananya Mittal convened a crucial meeting with the candidates and election agents in the Collectorate Auditorium to discuss the arrangements and ensure the transparency and fairness of the vote counting process. The meeting was attended by Deputy Development Commissioner  Manish Kumar, ADM Law and Order  Anant Kumar, Deputy Election Officer, Priyanka Singh, and District Public Relations Officer  Panchanan Oraon.

 Mittal emphasized that the guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India will be strictly adhered to. Comprehensive measures have been put in place by the district administration to guarantee an unbiased counting process. He encouraged political parties and independent candidates to appoint counting agents for each table in the counting hall.

The District Election Officer highlighted stringent security arrangements. Entry into the counting center will be restricted to individuals with identity cards. Barricading has been established for secure transport of EVMs from the strong room to the counting hall, and extensive surveillance measures, including 360° CCTV coverage and dedicated videographers, will be in place to monitor all activities within the premises.

Counting agents are allowed to bring only a copy, pen, and paper into the counting center. No electronic devices, food items, or other personal belongings will be permitted. Candidates are instructed to ensure their agents are briefed on these guidelines and maintain discipline throughout the process. Any issues or queries from the counting agents should be directed to the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO), Returning Officer (RO), or the observer present.

Section 144 is in effect across the district to maintain law and order. June 04 will be a dry day, with all government-licensed liquor shops closed and stringent monitoring to prevent illegal liquor sales. Legal actions will be enforced to uphold this regulation.

The comprehensive preparations and strict protocols set by the District Election Officer aim to ensure that the vote counting process for the Lok Sabha General Election 2024 is conducted smoothly, transparently, and fairly.