DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Agarwal stated that the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha General Elections, 2024 will commence on June 4, 2024, at 8:00 AM. The counting will take place across 90 designated counting centres set up for all 10 Lok Sabha constituencies along with 1 by-election of Karnal Assembly in the state.

Giving more information in this regard, he informed that all necessary preparations have been meticulously completed to ensure the counting process is conducted efficiently, and peacefully. The Election Commission of India has appointed counting observers at all counting centres to supervise the process in accordance with the Commission's instructions.

He also informed that for any information or complaint related to the counting of votes, toll free number 0172-1950, control room telephone 0172-2701362 and email hry elect@yahoo.com can be contacted for the prompt response. He stated that every officer, clerk, agent, or other person involved in recording or counting votes must maintain the secrecy of voting. Violation of this constitutes an offence under Section 128 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and may result in imprisonment for up to 3 months, a fine, or both.

He said that no official connected with the conduct of elections shall perform any act (other than voting) that furthers the prospects of any candidate's election. Violations are punishable under Section 129 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, with imprisonment for up to 6 months, a fine, or both. Any person who, without reasonable cause, breaches their official duty in connection with an election will be liable for a fine of up to Rs. 500 under Section 134 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Anurag Agarwal further stated that any person in the service of the Government acting as an election agent, polling agent, or counting agent of a candidate is subject to penalties under Section 134A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, including imprisonment for up to 3 months, a fine, or both. He has reiterated the importance of adherence to these guidelines to ensure a fair and transparent counting process.
(editor@dailyworld.in)