Published May 04, 2026 | 10:02 AM ⚊ Updated May 04, 2026 | 10:02 AM
Representational image.
Synopsis: Keys to strong rooms storing EVMs went missing in Karnataka’s Davanagere South and Kerala’s, forcing officials to break open entries under supervision, delaying counting but ensuring machine security.
An unusual turn of events disrupted vote counting in two constituencies in Karnataka and Kerala on Monday, 4 May, as officials struggled to access strong rooms where EVMs were stored.
In Karnataka’s Davanagere South, the keys to three strong rooms located inside DRR School premises were found missing just as counting was set to begin.
With no alternative available, the returning officer and election observer supervised the breaking open of the rooms to gain entry.
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The incident caused a delay in the counting process, though officials later confirmed that the machines remained secure.
Meanwhile, similar incident was reported in neighbouring Kerala’s Kalamassery Assembly constituency in Ernakulam, where CPI(M) leader P Rajeev is contesting.
The key to the strong room here could not be located, prompting a search. Eventually, officials broke the seal and entered the room under strict supervision.
(With inputs from Anisha Reddy and Sreelakshmi Soman)
