Election Deptt dismisses rumours of inadequate power supply in Strong Rooms

GANGTOK, 14 Apr: The Election Department has assured that strong rooms where the Electronic Voting Machines are housed have adequate power supply and that the security measures in place are resolute. This reassurance was made in response to apprehensions born from rumours that power outage in the strongroom here in Gangtok had somehow compromised the security of the EVMs stored at the TN auditorium.
In this regard it has been clarified by officials that the Power Department has been asked to ensure adequate and consistent power supply to the strong rooms. The Chief Electoral Officer has informed that the power supply inside the strong rooms has been cut to avoid the occurrence of short circuit. He, however, assured that the perimeter was well lit and the CCTVs powered round the clock.
In addition it has also been informed that there is adequate power back up for the CCTVs to operate as well. In fact the CCTVs, which have infrared imaging facility, are backed up by invertors which can provide power back up for up to 10 hours. Officials informed that adequate arrangements have been made for the security of the strong rooms including power supply and there should not be any reason for apprehension in people’s minds.
SKM party officials have also inspected the strong room facilities and have expressed satisfaction over the arrangements. The SKM Lok Sabha candidate, TN Dhakal has issued a statement regarding the same. It may be mentioned here that political parties can also have their representatives camped outside the strongroom on a 24x7 vigil as well.