The Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) intended for the three assembly constituencies of Ooty, Coonoor, and Gudalur in the Nilgiris district have been securely transported to a private educational institution’s security depot under stringent police protection. For the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the EVMs and Voter Verification Machines (VVPAT) have undergone testing and allocation through a randomized two-phase draw according to constituency requirements.

The Voting Registration Unit (BU304), Control Unit (CU304), and VVPAT (330) for Ooty; the Gudalur’s designated Voting Registration Unit (BU285), Control Unit (CU285), and VVPAT (309); along with other necessary components for Coonoor have been distributed to appropriate local storage facilities. To ensure secure monitoring, more than 50 armed security personnel have been deployed, complemented by continuous CCTV surveillance operating around the clock.

Election Code of Conduct Enforcement

With the Election Code of Conduct currently in effect, precautions are being taken regarding cash limits for tourists visiting the Nilgiris district. The Nilgiris District Election Officer, Lakshmi Bhavya Tandoori, stated that any tourist found carrying cash or gold exceeding the limit of Rs 50,000 would face confiscation of the excess amount. There will be no exemptions provided for visitors who bring more than the permitted amount.

Randomization Ceremony for EVMs

The allocation of EVMs through a randomization process for the upcoming assembly elections in the Nilgiris district, specifically for Ooty, Coonoor, and Gudalur, took place at the District Collectorate in Udacity. This event was attended by leaders from various political parties. Lakshmi Bhavya Tandoori oversaw the randomization session, executing the allocation of EVMs to designated constituencies.

Complaints and Swift Actions

During the week spanning from March 15 to 22, the Election Control Room in the Nilgiris district reported receiving 71 complaints, all of which are being addressed promptly. Approximately Rs 41 lakh in cash and goods valued at around Rs 2.59 crore have been seized through vehicle checks conducted by Election Flying Squads. Tandoori mentioned that a designated team, led by the District Revenue Officer, has successfully released Rs 2.48 crore worth of the confiscated items to date.

Promoting Voter Awareness

In an effort to enhance voter turnout, officials have identified 13 centers with historically low participation in previous elections. Awareness programs are being initiated in these areas. Arrangements are also in place to provide transportation for indigenous tribal populations who may lack access to voting facilities. Tandoori clarified that genuine tourists would not face confiscations upon providing valid documentation; however, any excess cash or gold will be subject to forfeiture. Items seized from tourists can be reclaimed within 48 hours; in instances where tourists have lodged complaints, some have had their possessions returned within just 24 hours. Tandoori also emphasized the directives given to Election Flying Squad personnel to avoid inconveniencing genuine tourists during vehicle checks.

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