On April 21, 2026, the Election Commission of India directed all District Election Officers and Returning Officers in Kerala to keep strongrooms sealed until the official counting day. This decision follows incidents involving the unauthorized opening of strongrooms in Perambra, Kozhikode district, and plans to open another in Nenmara, Palakkad district.

• 01Election Commission prohibits opening strongrooms before counting day.
• 02Directive issued to all District Election Officers and Returning Officers in Kerala.
• 03Incident in Perambra constituency raised concerns about EVM security.
• 04Plans to open a strongroom in Nenmara constituency were also reported.
• 05Kerala Chief Electoral Officer emphasized the importance of maintaining security.

This decision ensures that the electoral process remains transparent and secure, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the elections.