News
Tomorrow’s Counting at GCT to Begin with Postal Ballots at 8 AM
SimpliCity News Team · 03 May 2026
Coimbatore: Counting of votes for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections will take place on May 4, 2026 (Monday) across the State. In Coimbatore district, counting for all 10 constituencies will be conducted at the Government College of Technology (GCT) on Thadagam Road.
The district recorded a voter turnout of 84.76%, with several constituencies crossing 87%, including Sulur (88.31%), Pollachi (88.09%), Thondamuthur (87.50%), and Kinathukadavu (87.11%).
Following polling on April 23, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and VVPAT units have been securely stored in strong rooms on the GCT campus under a three-layer security system. More than 300 CCTV cameras have been installed, with round-the-clock monitoring in place.
The strong rooms will be opened on May 4 in the presence of candidates, their authorised agents, and Election Commission observers. The entire process will be videographed, said District Collector and Returning Officer Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar.
Postal ballots to be counted first
As per Election Commission of India guidelines, counting will begin at 8:00 AM with postal ballots. EVM counting will be taken up subsequently. Officials indicated that the final compilation of EVM and VVPAT results will be carried out after the completion of postal ballot counting, ensuring clarity and uniformity in the process.
The Commission noted that postal ballots have increased significantly due to home voting facilities extended to senior citizens above 85 years and persons with disabilities.
Guidelines for candidates and agents
The Election Commission has issued detailed protocols for counting day to ensure transparency and order. Only authorised counting agents will be allowed inside counting halls, and they must carry valid identity cards issued by the Returning Officer.
Candidates and their agents are permitted to observe the counting process but are not allowed to interfere with officials or disrupt proceedings. The use of mobile phones and electronic devices inside counting centres is restricted to maintain secrecy.
Security arrangements include restrictions on vehicle movement in the vicinity of the counting centre, as per local security plans.
Each candidate may appoint up to 16 counting agents. For postal ballots and the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS), up to five agents may be appointed. The list of agents, along with photographs, must be submitted in Form 18 to the Returning Officers.
Agents are required to report at least one hour before counting begins, carrying their appointment letter (Form 18 copy), valid photo identity proof, and the official ID card issued by the Returning Officer. Replacement of agents, if necessary, can be done using Form 19 before the commencement of counting.
Agents will be restricted to their allotted counting halls, and only the candidate or an authorised agent will be permitted near the Returning Officer or Assistant Returning Officer’s table at a time.
These arrangements are aimed at ensuring a smooth, transparent, and efficient counting process in Coimbatore district.
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