With the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections just around the corner, authorities are intensifying preparations to ensure a seamless electoral process. The second phase of specialized training for officers and staffers appointed for the critical vote counting process kicked off on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Emphasis on Accuracy and Transparency
The training session was conducted at the G. D. Madgulkar auditorium within the Election Returning Officer’s Office in Akurdi Pradhikaran. Election Returning Officer Hanumant Patil personally led the proceedings, providing comprehensive guidance to the assembled personnel. He underscored that vote counting is one of the most sensitive and crucial stages in any election.
"To prevent any errors, it is imperative that every officer and employee has a complete grasp of the rules, technical nuances, and their specific duties before assuming their responsibilities," Patil stated. He placed strong emphasis on maintaining transparency, accuracy, and strict discipline throughout the counting process.
Patil directed all officials to adhere meticulously to the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines. He advised extreme caution while handling Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and insisted that every task be performed according to prescribed procedures at each stage. "A thorough understanding of individual responsibilities and coordinated teamwork is essential to avoid errors, negligence, or violations of rules," he added.
Comprehensive Technical and Legal Briefing
The training was organized into three detailed sessions. Using computer presentations, trainers provided extensive technical and legal guidance on the protocols for both polling day and the counting day. The curriculum covered a wide array of essential topics, including:
- The proper connection and handling of EVMs, including ballot units and control units.
- Procedures for conducting mock polls.
- Relevant legal provisions and the latest ECI guidelines.
- Key changes implemented for the current elections and the postal voting process.
- Stages of the voting process, from receiving and checking election materials to the final inspection of machines.
- Setup and layout of polling stations and booths, including pre-polling day preparations and security arrangements.
Officials were also briefed on the specific duties of polling officers and presiding officers, outlining work at various stages and the steps to follow in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Hands-On Demonstration and Key Attendees
A crucial part of the training involved a practical demonstration on handling EVMs, ballot units, and control units. This hands-on approach aimed to build confidence and ensure technical proficiency among the staff.
The session was held under the supervision of Election Observer Sarita Narke. It saw participation from several key figures, including Coordination Officer and Executive Engineer Harvinder Singh Bansal, Assistant Election Returning Officers Ravindra Kulkarni, Chandrakant Muthal, and Rajaram Sarger, along with chief trainers Satish Meher, Avinash Walunj, Rameshwar Pawar, and Narendra Band. A large contingent of officers and employees designated for vote counting duties were present.
With the PCMC municipal elections set for January 15, these rigorous training initiatives highlight the administration's focus on conducting a free, fair, and error-free electoral exercise. The focus now shifts to the smooth execution of polling and the final, decisive count.
