(1)The returning officer shall exclude from the place fixed for counting of votes all persons except-(a)[such persons (to be known as counting supervisors] [ Substituted by S.O. 4542, dated 20.12.1968 (w.e.f. 1.1.1969).] and counting assistants) as he may appoint to assist him in the counting;(b)persons authorised by the Election Commission;(c)public servants on duty in connection with the election; and(d)candidates, their election agents and counting agents.(2)No person who has been employed by or on behalf of, or has been otherwise working for, a candidate in or about the election shall be appointed under clause (a) of sub-rule (1).(3)The returning officer shall decide which counting agent or agents shall watch the counting at any particular counting table or group of counting tables.(4)Any person who during the counting of votes misconducts himself or fails to obey the lawful directions of the returning officer may be removed from the place where the votes are being counted by the returning officer or by any police officer on duty or by any person authorised in this behalf by the returning officer.
