Unlike the previous elections, when it would be bustling with supporters, the NESCO Center saw a subdued atmosphere; meanwhile, counting of votes proceeded smoothly
Security personnel limited access to counting centres and kept supporters at bay at NESCO. Pic/Satej Shinde
The NESCO Center in Goregaon saw a significantly lower attendance of people during the vote counting for three Lok Sabha constituencies on Tuesday. Unlike previous elections, where counting centres were bustling with supporters, candidates, and media personnel, this year the centre had a noticeably subdued atmosphere.
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Speaking with the few people who had gathered, mid-day gathered that a number of reasons were behind the low attendance. Many people cited the availability and convenience of digital updates as a primary factor. With live streaming and real-time updates available online, there was less incentive for supporters to be physically present at the counting centre. “I can get all the updates on my phone,” said a BJP supporter requesting anonymity. “There’s no need to come all the way here when I can watch the results unfold from home. This has become one of the main reasons for the low attendance at counting centres.”
Heavy bandobast near the counting centre in Vikhroli. Pic/Shadab Khan
Heat keeps people away
The prevailing heat in Mumbai also prevented people from venturing to the centre. “It is very hot and many people decided to not leave their homes. This also results in low attendance of supporters,” said Prashik Kamble, who was present outside the NESCO Center.
Another contributing factor appeared to be the heightened security measures in place. Stricter regulations and the presence of heavy police force discouraged many. “It’s not as accessible as it used to be,” said a party volunteer. “The security checks are thorough, and many people prefer to avoid the hassle.”
A few people still gathered outside the counting facility, on Tuesday. Pic/Anurag Ahire
Meanwhile, the counting process proceeded smoothly. Candidates from the three constituencies whose votes were being counted visited the counting station at various times. An official from the Election Commission of India (ECI), on condition of anonymity, said that Ravindra Waikar, the candidate from Mumbai North West Lok Sabha constituency, had appealed for recounting.
Candidates Piyush Goyal, Varsha Gaikwad, Amol Kirtikar came to the counting centre at various times. Other candidates, like Ujjwal Nikam, Ravindra Waikar and Bhushan Patil were not seen at the counting centre. Also seen was Malad West MLA Aslam Shaikh who came to support Gaikwad.
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