Secretary State Election Commission Rakesh Singh has informed that during the counting of general and by-elections of urban bodies, the use of mobile phones hinders the counting work and there is a possibility of breach of confidentiality of counting work.
The use of mobile cell phones in the counting hall and premises is strictly prohibited. This includes journalists as well. Observers appointed by the Commission for election supervision shall be free from this restriction, so that they may remain in constant touch with the Commission.
Singh has said that the contesting candidates and their election and polling agents will be checked during the entry at the counting place and will not be allowed to enter the counting place if they carry mobile. Instructions have been given to inform all the candidates and recognised political parties in this regard in advance.
Arrangements have already been made by the District Election Officer and the officers related to the counting of votes to set up a telephone in a room near the counting place for establishing contact with the commission.