Printing of ballot papers: EC sends print order to Govt. Printer

By Sandun A Jayasekera

In an indication that the Elections Commission (EC) was ready to hold the delayed Parliamentary polls at the first conducive opportunity, the EC has sent a print order to the Government Printer yesterday for 16 million ballot papers, the Daily Mirror learns.  

However, a source at the Government Printing Department said the print order did not mean the immediate printing of ballot papers. 

 
“It is only a sign given to the government printer to be prepared and start the printing of ballot papers soon after the final order was given. Besides, the EC will have to provide the Government Printer the necessary information like the day of the poll, names of candidates, their numbers and symbol etc. The Government Printer must also import security printing papers if he does not have them ample stocks as the ballot papers are printed on special security papers,” he added.   However, it is an indication that the EC is ready to hold polls immediately if and when the opportunity permits, he said.