Election Commission Orders Strongroom Security Ahead of Kerala Polls
Kerala polls: After Perambra row, Election Commission orders strongrooms not to be opened before counting day
The HinduImage: The Hindu
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.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Election Commission of India has mandated that strongrooms containing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Kerala must remain closed until the counting day. This directive, issued on April 21, 2026, by Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U. Kelkar, comes in response to reports of a strongroom in Perambra constituency of Kozhikode district being opened prematurely. Additionally, there were plans to open another strongroom in Nenmara constituency in Palakkad district. The Commission's decision aims to ensure the integrity and security of the electoral process, particularly in light of these incidents that raised concerns among voters and election officials alike.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
This decision ensures that the electoral process remains transparent and secure, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the elections.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you trust the security measures in place for the upcoming elections?
Connecting to poll...
More about Election Commission of India

Election Commission Implements Strict Two-Wheeler Restrictions Ahead of West Bengal Assembly Elections
News 18 β’ Apr 21, 2026

Key Details for Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Voting Date and Guidelines
News 18 β’ Apr 21, 2026

Election Commission Prepares for Smooth Voting in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections
Abp News β’ Apr 21, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



