Silchar: Assam chief electoral officer (CEO) Anurag Goel on Thursday reviewed vote-counting preparedness in Cachar district, focusing on security, logistics, and adherence to Election Commission guidelines.The counting will take place on May 4.During his visit, Goel inspected the strong room at ISTT in Ramnagar, where electronic voting machines (EVMs) are stored, and assessed the arrangements for the counting day. He also reviewed security deployment at counting halls and interacted with officials on procedural aspects to ensure smooth conduct of the process.Cachar district commissioner and district election officer Ayush Garg and superintendent of police Sanjeev Kumar Saikia accompanied the CEO during the inspection. Other officials present included district development commissioner Rajib Roy, election officer Masi Topno, and senior personnel from police and central forces.Meanwhile, the district administration has issued a comprehensive order prohibiting several items inside the counting hall at ISTT, Ramnagar.According to the directive, no electronic devices will be allowed inside, except those specifically authorised. Weapons and hazardous items such as knives, scissors, fireworks, matchboxes, arms, ammunition, lathis or any sharp objects have been barred. Personal belongings, including wallets, purses, water bottles, umbrellas, large bags, containers and tiffin carriers, are prohibited.The order further restricts the use of recording equipment such as video cameras and sound recorders, except for officially permitted devices. Inflammable materials like petrol, diesel, alcohol, gas, chemicals and acids have also been banned. Additionally, tobacco products, sound-amplifying devices, and political materials such as banners, flags, pamphlets, festoons and gulal will not be allowed within the counting premises.The administration has urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the guidelines, warning that any violation will invite legal action.
