As the counting of votes for the upcoming elections approaches, the district administration has initiated numerous preparations to ensure a smooth process. As part of these efforts, training sessions for postal voting and EVM vote counting staff were organized in two shifts at Michael John Auditorium in Bistupur, under the supervision of District Election Officer Ananya Mittal .

The training aimed to familiarize staff with the technical aspects and sensitivities of the counting process while ensuring they complete their tasks accurately and efficiently.

The first session, held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., focused on the procedures for counting postal ballots. The second session, which took place from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., provided detailed instructions on the counting of EVM votes. The sessions were led by district-level master trainers who emphasized the importance of precision at every step of the process.

Addressing the interns, Dipankar Chaudhary, ITDA Project Director, highlighted the critical role of staff count in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. “The counting of votes is not just a procedural task but a responsibility that requires attention to detail and total dedication. Make sure you clear all doubts during training and complete your tasks with utmost diligence,” he said.

Staff have been trained on the different forms, formats and reports they will have to deal with on the day of the count. They were also informed of their specific roles and responsibilities. The following key instructions have been highlighted: All counting staff must report to the Cooperative College counting room at 5am on counting day. It will be strictly forbidden to carry food products, mobile phones or any other unauthorized object into the counting room. Staff must adhere to protocols and guidelines outlined during training.

The training sessions provided an interactive platform where master trainers addressed staff doubts and concerns. Practical demonstrations and detailed explanations helped clarify procedures, ensuring staff were fully equipped to carry out their responsibilities.

With the completion of the training sessions, the district administration took a significant step towards ensuring a transparent and error-free counting process. The detailed planning and meticulous execution reflect the administration’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of the democratic process.

“Preparations for vote counting are now in full swing, with counting staff equipped with the knowledge and tools to carry out their tasks effectively. The success of these efforts will play a crucial role in determining the successful conclusion of the electoral process,” an official said.