Tight security protocol for SMC counting

way2barak, October 5:— In pursuance of the instructions issued by the Assam State Election Commission, the district administration has issued strict instructions regarding the carrying of mobile phones and other restricted articles inside the Counting Hall on the day of counting of votes for the Silchar Municipal Corporation Election 2026 on October 6.

As per notice received only the Election Observer, District Commissioner, District Development Commissioner, Co-District Commissioner, Additional District Commissioner, Assistant Returning Officer, Election Officer, Senior Superintendent of Police, Additional Superintendent of Police, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Officer-in-Charge of the concerned Police Station and officers or officials specifically authorised by the District Commissioner shall be permitted to carry mobile phones beyond the entry point of the Counting Hall. No other person shall be permitted to carry a mobile phone beyond the entry point.

Laptops, tablets, digital or smart watches, earbuds, calculators, camera enabled spectacles, camera pens, batteries, radios, transistors, transmitters and other electronic devices shall also be prohibited inside the Counting Hall, except for authorised officers or officials.

The administration has also prohibited the carrying of knives, scissors, fireworks, matchboxes, arms, ammunition, weapons, lathis and other hazardous articles. Water bottles, drinking glasses, outside food, umbrellas, large bags, ink fountain pens, containers, tiffin carriers, lighters and tools of any kind shall not be permitted inside the Counting Hall. However, counting agents of candidates shall be allowed to carry writing pads and pens for noting counting-related information.

Video cameras, sound recorders and other recording devices shall also remain prohibited, except for cameras specifically authorised by the competent authority. Petrol, diesel, alcohol, gas, chemicals, wood, acids, intoxicating substances, drugs and other inflammable substances shall not be allowed inside the counting premises.

All forms of tobacco products are strictly prohibited. Articles capable of amplifying voice or sound, as well as political banners, flags, pamphlets, festoons, vibrant-coloured Gulal and any other article or substance likely to hamper the counting process, shall also not be permitted inside the Counting Hall.

All concerned have been requested to strictly comply with the instructions and cooperate with the security and counting arrangements at the venue to ensure smooth and orderly conduct of the counting process.

This is stated in a press release issued by the Regional Office of Information & Public Relations, Barak Valley Zone, Silchar, Assam.