The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician C. Joseph Vijay, has urged the state election machinery to bolster security at counting centers in Tamil Nadu before the Assembly election results on May 4. A delegation, headed by TVK General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna, met with Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik to express concerns over law and order during the counting process.
Aadhav Arjuna, speaking to the press post-meeting, disclosed that the party had requested increased deployment of armed police personnel at all 62 counting centers in the state. Additionally, he called for the creation of a one-kilometer “sterile zone” around each center to prevent unauthorized gatherings and ensure a controlled atmosphere.
Highlighting a recent alleged arson attack on the party’s office in Srirangam, the TVK leader emphasized the importance of maintaining security during the counting process to prevent any disruptions. He also mentioned receiving information indicating potential efforts to intimidate party candidates and counting agents on result day.
The party stressed the significance of fair counting for the electoral process’s integrity and urged authorities to take proactive measures to avert any untoward incidents, ensuring transparency and orderliness. They also sought clear directives to district administrations to reinforce security, maintain vigilance, and ensure the safety of all stakeholders involved in the counting process, including polling agents and candidates.
Officials at the Chief Electoral Officer’s office confirmed receiving the representation and assured that the concerns raised would be thoroughly reviewed. They stated that appropriate actions would be implemented in accordance with the Election Commission of India’s guidelines to guarantee peaceful and smooth counting procedures statewide.
