Section 22 in Tamil Nadu Farmers' Management of Irrigation Systems Election Rules, 2003
22. Preparation of ballot boxes.
(1)Where a paper seal is used for securing a ballot box, the paper seal shall be signed by the Presiding Officer and the signature of a candidates desirous of affixing their signature shall be obtained.(2)The paper seal shall be fixed in the space meant therefor in the ballot box and then secured and the box sealed in such manner that the slit for the insertion of ballot paper therein remains open.(3)The seals used for securing a ballot box shall be affixed in such manner that after the box has been closed, it is not possible to open it without breaking the seal.(4)Where it is not necessary to use paper seals for securing the ballot boxes, it shall be secured and the ballot box sealed in such manner that the slit for the insertion of ballot papers remains open and the candidates present allowed to affix, if they so desire, their seals.(5)Every ballot box used at a polling station shall bear label both inside and outside marked with-(a)the description of the polling station;(b)the serial number of the ballot box (to be filled in on the label outside the ballot box only); and(c)the date of poll.(6)Immediately before commencement of the poll, the Presiding Officer shall demonstrate to the candidates and other persons present that the ballot box is empty and bears the labels referred to in sub-rule (5).(7)The ballot box shall then be closed, secured, sealed and placed in full view.Explanation. - The specification of ballot boxes, size, shape and material to be used shall, however, be decided by the Collector to ensure secrecy in voting.(8)Immediately before commencement of the poll, demonstration shall be made to the candidates present the marked copy or copies of electoral roll, as the case may be, to be used during the poll.(9)The declaration before the commencement of the poll in Form-18 shall be signed by the Presiding Officer and the signatures of such candidates who are present and are willing to sign in the said Form-18 obtained.
