ECI Deploys 242 Observers, Rolls Out Tech-Driven Safeguards in West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026
The commission said the observers will help enforce QR code entry, a mobile ban and cross-checks at 165 constituencies.
- The Election Commission of India deployed 165 Additional Counting Observers and 77 Police Observers across West Bengal to oversee vote counting for the 2026 Assembly Elections, strengthening procedural oversight and security.
- Under Article 324 of the Constitution of India and Section 20B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Commission aims to ensure a secure, peaceful, and transparent counting environment. These appointments grant the Commission full supervisory control over election conduct.
- Access to counting centres requires QR-coded photo ID cards issued via ECINet, while mobile phones are strictly banned inside counting halls except for the Counting Observer and Returning Officer. These restrictions prevent unauthorized entry and data manipulation.
- Counting Supervisors prepare Form 17C-II results in the presence of Counting Agents, while independent Micro-Observers independently record Electronic Voting Machine Control Unit data submitted for cross-verification after every round. This layered approach ensures every stage is documented and verifiable.
- The Commission strictly prohibits Police Observers from entering counting halls, ensuring they coordinate security and crowd control outside centres only. This operational boundary prevents security oversight from interfering with vote tabulation.
18 Articles
18 Articles
Major security and surveillance measures have been taken in West Bengal ahead of the vote count. Following the Supreme Court's order, the Election Commission has deployed additional counting and police observers. Strict protocols have been implemented at every counting center.
Hours after SC's backing, Election Commission appoints more observers for Bengal
These additional observers, appointed under Article 324 of the Constitution of India and Section 20B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, would ensure that the counting proceedings are conducted in a secure, peaceful, fear-free, and transparent environment.
Elecion Commission Deploys 165 Additional Counting Observers, 77 Police Observers In West Bengal Ahead Of Counting Day
The Additional Counting Observers and Police Observers have been deployed to ensure that the counting proceedings are conducted in a secure, peaceful, intimidation-free and transparent environment, a press note released by the poll body mentioned.
EC deploys 242 more observers in Bengal for counting amid allegations of ‘EVM manipulation’ - The Tribune
Amid escalating political tensions and allegations of electoral manipulation, the Election Commission on Saturday deployed 165 Additional Counting Observers and 77 Police Observers across West Bengal to oversee the counting of votes for the 2026 Assembly elections.
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