Patna: Patna’s election machinery is in full swing as electronic voting machines (EVMs) from 14 assembly constituencies have been sealed in the city’s designated strong room, officials confirmed on Friday.
The strong room, located at AN College, was inspected by Patna District Magistrate Dr Tyag Rajan and Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya Sharma, alongside nearly all sub-divisional magistrates and local officials. Dr Rajan stated that the EVMs were sealed in the presence of candidates and election observers, ensuring transparency.
Security arrangements around the strong room are extensive. The facility operates under 24-hour CCTV surveillance, and seating has been arranged for candidates wishing to view the machines at any time.
A two-layered security system has been implemented. Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel will guard the strong room itself, while Bihar State Armed Police (BSAP) personnel secure the surrounding campus. On the day of counting, a third security layer will be enforced within a 100-metre radius of the campus. “No one, including officials, can enter the strong room without CAPF permission,” Dr Rajan noted.
Magistrates have been deployed at all three entry and exit gates of the campus, as well as at designated locations inside, to monitor access and oversee candidate representatives. District police will maintain presence outside the campus, forming part of a comprehensive three-tier security system on counting day.
Security personnel are operating in three shifts to maintain constant vigilance: 6 am–2 pm, 2 pm–10 pm, and 10 pm–6 am. Each shift is staffed with a magistrate, sub-inspector, assistant sub-inspector, and four DAP personnel. Specific monitoring duties include oversight of gates, the CISF building, and areas designated for party agents.
SSP Sharma emphasised the strict security measures, adding: “A platoon of police is stationed inside the strong room, with district police monitoring the perimeter. Every precaution is being taken to ensure the integrity of the EVMs and the counting process.”
