CHENNAI: Political parties in Tamil Nadu observed a quiet period on Wednesday as the month-long campaign came to a close, while the Election Commission ramped up preparations for smooth polling on Thursday. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) were dispatched to polling stations under stringent security measures, with flying squads increasing surveillance to prevent last-minute cash distribution.
Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik announced that 300 companies of paramilitary forces and over 83,800 police personnel have been deployed across the state to secure polling stations.
In a notable logistical effort, Election Commission officials undertook a challenging 65-kilometer journey from Theni to deliver ballot units to a remote polling booth at Vellimalai Estate in Varusanadu, which caters to just five voters. At the Oothukadu polling station in Bodinayakanur, which has 307 registered voters but lacks motorable access, EVMs were transported on horseback through forested areas.
Transportation hubs were notably crowded as voters returned to their native places to participate in the elections, with many even arriving from abroad for the voting process. Additionally, delegates from various countries visited Chennai as part of the international election visitors program to observe and study the polling procedures.
