Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): The Haryana State Election Commission has finalized all necessary preparations for the counting of votes following the successful completion of municipal general and by-elections across the province on May 10. According to a spokesperson for the Commission, the counting process is scheduled to commence at 8:00 AM on May 13, 2026, at designated centres. District election officers and returning officers have received strict directives to ensure that every stage of the tallying process remains impartial, transparent, and orderly, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to a reliable democratic outcome.
Rigorous security measures have been implemented at all counting locations to safeguard the integrity of the process and maintain public order. Access to these centres will be strictly limited to authorized personnel, with security bolstered by comprehensive CCTV surveillance, strategic barricading, and significant police deployment. The Commission emphasized that Electronic Voting Machines will be transported under specialized police escort from strong rooms to counting halls and back to secure storage after the results are finalized. Authorities have also been instructed to keep a vigilant eye on any anti-social elements or activities that might disrupt the peaceful environment.
To ensure transparency, general observers and returning officers will be present at every counting station to address any grievances or technical queries from candidates and their agents in real-time. The administration has appealed to all political participants and their supporters to cooperate with officials and refrain from entertaining unverified rumours that could cause unnecessary tension. These elections covered major municipal corporations including Ambala, Panchkula, and Sonipat, alongside several municipal councils and committees, marking a significant milestone in local governance for the state of Haryana.
