Ottapidaram bypoll: 50 booths deemed critical

Since 15 candidates are in the fray here, each of the polling stations would have one EVM along with the VVPAT. Besides, 20 per cent of the EVMs have been kept as back-up in case of an emergency. A team of engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited would reach Thoothukudi on Sunday to check EVM functioning. Micro observers would also be deployed in each of the polling stations. Poll proceedings of 50 per cent of the stations would be web cast to ensure free and fair elections.

A total of 1,200 poll personnel have already been trained. The officer added that tight security arrangements have been made at VOC College in Thoothukudi, where counting of votes would take place. Additionally, he said three companies of Central Para Military Force personnel would be deployed ahead of the poll schedule.