Lok Sabha Election Counting: A Step-by-Step Guide

The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections will commence on Tuesday. Initially, postal ballots will be counted, followed by votes from EVMs. The process ensures accuracy through detailed procedures involving Form 17C and stringent verification methods for VVPAT slips, especially in close contests.

The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha elections is set to begin on Tuesday. As per Rule 54 A of the Conduct of Elections Rules 1961, the initial focus will be on counting postal ballot papers at the Returning Officer's (RO) table. Only those postal ballots received before the fixed counting commencement time will be considered.

After 30 minutes of counting postal ballots, votes from Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be tallied, provided there are no postal ballots pending in the constituency. The pivotal Control Unit (CU) of the EVM, along with Form 17C, plays a crucial role in this process. Officials will ensure the paper seals on the CUs are intact and that the total votes match those recorded in Form 17C. The results will then be recorded and shown to relevant officials and candidates' agents.

In instances where the CU's display does not show results, counting VVPAT slips comes into play, following a completed CU count. All results are compiled and verified meticulously. In tight races where the margin of victory is less than the number of rejected postal ballots, a mandatory re-verification process is triggered before final results are declared. A tie between candidates is resolved by drawing lots.