Chennai: The Election Commission of India has implemented an extensive three-layer security framework, along with a QR code-based entry system, to ensure that the counting of votes for the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 proceeds in a secure and orderly manner on May 4, Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik said.

Outer security ring with restricted access

As per the Commission’s plan, the outermost security layer consists of a restricted zone extending up to 100 metres around each counting centre. Entry into this perimeter will be limited strictly to authorised individuals.

Police personnel will be stationed at all access points to verify identity documents and conduct detailed frisking procedures.

Second layer monitored by State Armed Police

The second tier of security will cover the entry gates of the counting venues. This zone will be guarded by the State Armed Police, who will regulate movement and ensure that no unauthorised persons enter or loiter within the premises.

Use of mobile phones and other communication devices will be confined to designated areas within this layer.

CAPF to secure counting halls and strong rooms

The innermost security layer includes the entrances to counting halls and Electronic Voting Machine strong rooms. This area will be under the protection of Central Armed Police Forces, with strict checks in place to prevent entry of any prohibited items.

In addition to local police and State Armed Police personnel, a total of 65 companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been deployed across counting centres to reinforce security measures.

QR code-based identity system introduced

In a first-of-its-kind move, the Election Commission has rolled out a QR code-enabled Photo Identity Card system through ECINET to curb unauthorised access.

Only individuals whose credentials are successfully verified through QR code scanning will be allowed to pass through the innermost security checkpoint.

The QR-based identity cards are compulsory for all authorised personnel, including Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical teams, candidates, election agents and counting agents.

Counting schedule and result updates

The counting process will commence at 8:00 am with postal ballots, followed by the counting of Electronic Voting Machines at 8:30 am.

Results for each round across all Assembly constituencies will be declared by the respective Returning Officers through public address systems at the counting centres. These updates will also be made available simultaneously on the ECINET application and the official results portal.

Commission reiterates commitment to transparency

The arrangements were outlined by Archana Patnaik, Chief Electoral Officer and Principal Secretary to the Government, who reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent, secure and efficient counting process.

The counting of votes is scheduled to take place on May 4.
Agency inputs