Political exigencies put parties on tenterhooks

Brainstorming sessions on fundamentals of counting by mentors with counting experience, and war rooms… the political parties in the state of Andhra Pradesh are leaving no stones unturned to register a loud protest in case of discrepancies on the day of counting i.e. 23 May. The never-before “extra care” by the political parties is the result of high tension, violence-ridden polling during the first phase in the state.

The ruling Telugu Desam which has been batting for counting of 50% of VVPATs was the first to organize a workshop for the party election agents and candidates who will be playing a key role in the counting process. TDP has gone extra cautious as it believes that the trouble the voters faced on the day of polling would continue to haunt the party on counting day.

“The party has succeeded in fighting against those conspired to damage the state and the TDP. Now we have reached the final but crucial phase of counting. Party workers must be alert all the time. Your callousness could result in a big blow to the party. On 23 May candidates must have most trusted people as their agents, who are well versed with all aspects of the counting process,” Naidu said addressing a training camp in Vizianagaram.

On the other hand, the YSR Congress party which has successfully run a war room during the time of campaigning and polling under the watchful eye of political strategist Prashanth Kishor has decided to set up another one for the Counting day. The war room will address grievances that would arise on 23 May. Former Chief Secretary Ajay kalam will be heading the war room. The war room will guide YSRCP chief election agents and counting agents to register their objections with the concerned returning officer.

In consonance, the party has also conducted a training camp here where participants were trained in the rules and regulations of counting. Agents were then given instructions about the precautions to be taken during the counting process. “The counting agents must demand a recount in case of any suspicion,” senior party leader Ummareddy Venkateswarlu said.

“In all 18 counting agents can be appointed for each assembly parliament segment. No criminal case should be there against the counting agents, and those who intentionally create disturbance will be sent out by the authorities,” Ajay Kalam informed at the training camp.