Kerala Elections: Election Commission Restricts Access to Strongrooms Until Counting Day Following Perambra Controversy

**Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Issues Directive Following Strongroom Security Concerns**

The Chief Electoral Officer of Kerala, Rathan U. Kelkar, has issued a directive in light of recent reports regarding the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) stored in strongrooms. It was brought to attention that a strongroom located in the Perambra constituency of Kozhikode was opened on Monday, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Additionally, reports indicated plans to open another strongroom in the Nenmara constituency in Palakkad. Given the sensitive nature of EVM storage, these developments have prompted the Chief Electoral Officer to emphasize the importance of adhering to strict protocols designed to safeguard the machinery that plays a crucial role in the electoral process.

As the election season approaches, officials are tasked with ensuring that all protocols regarding the handling and security of EVMs are followed meticulously to maintain public confidence in the electoral system. The Chief Electoral Officer aims to prevent any potential discrepancies that may arise from unauthorized access to the strongrooms.

Electoral observers and political parties have been urged to closely monitor the situation to ensure transparency during the process. The Kerala State Election Commission is committed to maintaining the highest standards of electoral integrity ahead of the upcoming local body elections.