Kerala Assembly Polls 2026: EVM commissioning begins in Kollam

The commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for the upcoming Assembly elections has officially commenced in the district under the supervision of District Collector and District Election Officer N. Devidas.

The process involves fixing ballot labels that feature the candidates’ names, photos, and symbols onto the ballot units, which are then carefully sealed. Simultaneously, the control units are secured using specialized tags to ensure the integrity of the voting process.

This critical preparation is taking place within the high-security strong rooms of each assembly constituency, led by the respective Returning Officers. To maintain complete transparency, mock polls are being conducted at these sites in the presence of representatives from various political parties. In addition to machine preparation, the district administration has established extensive arrangements to ensure that officials on election duty can exercise their right to vote.

Voters Facilitation Centres (VFCs) have been set up specifically for polling officials, while Postal Voting Centres (PVCs) are ready to cater to those working in essential service categories. Furthermore, a designated Voter Facilitation Centre will operate within the district to assist those assigned to non-polling election duties, ensuring no staff member is disenfranchised due to their service requirements. A notable feature of this election is the setup of 13 Pink Polling Stations across the district, designed to be managed entirely by women. From the presiding officers to the security personnel, every staff member at these stations will be female. While most constituencies will feature one such station, Karunagappally constituency has been assigned three Pink Polling Stations to further encourage women’s participation and leadership in the electoral process.