EVM distribution begins in Salem

Marking a crucial stage in the electoral process, the distribution of voting machines for the upcoming Lok Sabha General Elections commenced today on Moday at the Salem the District Collectorate premises, with the District Electoral Officer and Collector Dr. R.Brindadevi overseeing the process in the presence of authorized political party representatives.

According to the latest electoral roll published on January 22, 2024, Salem district has a substantial voter base of 29,28,122 individuals. The roll comprises 14,71,524 male voters, 14,56,299 female voters, and 299 registered third-gender voters. Significantly, among these voters are 25,577 elderly individuals aged above 85 years and 25,160 disabled voters.

Within the Salem Parliamentary Constituency, as of January 22, 2024, there were 8,23,336 male voters, 8,25,354 female voters, and a total of 221 third-gender voters, summing up to 16,48,911 voters in total.

To facilitate the electoral process, a network of 3,257 polling booths has been established across 1,249 polling centers, ensuring accessibility for public voting.

The distribution of voting machines encompassed safe transportation of 3,936 Ballot Units, 3,936 Control Units, and 4,260 VVPAT (Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail) machines. This allocation was conducted meticulously in the Election Voting Machine Depository Building within the District Collector's office premises, with authorized political party representatives present.

During the distribution event, several key officials were in attendance, including District Revenue Officer Dr.P. Menaka, Personal Assistant to Collector (Elections) Mr. Sivasubramanian, and Assistant Returning Officers.