New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The vote counting for the by-elections in 12 MCD wards is scheduled for December 3, under stringent security measures, as it will determine the future of 51 candidates whose fates were locked in EVMs on November 30, according to a representative from the State Election Commission, Delhi.

The SEC has established 10 counting centers for this purpose. Results are anticipated to be announced in the morning, as stated by an official on Tuesday.

“To ensure complete readiness, all Counting Centres have been outfitted with the necessary infrastructure, security, and monitoring systems,” the SEC noted in a statement.

“The Commission has collaborated closely with District Election Officers (DEOs), General Observers, Returning Officers (ROs), and security agencies to guarantee that the counting procedures meet the highest standards of transparency and efficiency,” it added.

According to the SEC, a total of 10 counting centers have been set up across various districts, including Kanjhawala, Pitampura, Bharat Nagar, Civil Lines, Rouse Avenue, Dwarka, Najafgarh, Gole Market, Pushp Vihar, and Mandawali.

“Each center will manage counting for designated wards, featuring secure strong room facilities and controlled entry/exit procedures,” it stated.

The by-elections are viewed by analysts as a referendum on the performance of the BJP-led Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and may significantly influence the party's standing in the civic House.

The last civic elections were conducted for 250 seats in December 2022. After several shifts in party positions, the current MCD House comprises 115 BJP councillors. The BJP aspires for a 12-0 victory in the by-elections to achieve the absolute majority mark of 125 in the 250-member civic House.

A strong performance by the BJP is expected to enhance Chief Minister Gupta's reputation and provide a favorable public assessment of her e-bus, health, and insurance welfare schemes, as well as the arrangements for Chhath devotees.

The by-election results are critical for the AAP as well, as it currently holds 99 councillors and aims to reclaim its position in city politics after ceding power to the BJP during the Assembly elections in February this year.

Congress is also making vigorous attempts to secure a few wards in the by-elections to maintain relevance in city politics, which is currently dominated by the BJP and AAP.

Approximately 6.98 lakh registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots for 51 candidates in the 12 MCD wards, with a turnout of 39 percent recorded on November 30.

A total of 580 polling stations were established for the bye-elections across the 12 wards: Mundka, Shalimar Bagh-B, Ashok Vihar, Chandni Chowk, Chandni Mahal, Dwarka B, Dichaon Kalan, Naraina, Sangam Vihar-A, Dakshin Puri (SC), Greater Kailash, and Vinod Nagar.