The counting of votes has begun for Assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Pudducherry. It began at 8 AM. Most of the results are expected by noon. Chief Election Commissioner S Y Qureshi told media persons that an elaborate three-tier security arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of counting.In West Bengal, counting is underway at 87 Centres for 294 Assembly seats. The Election Commission has appointed 312 Observers to oversee the process.Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal Sunil Gupta appealed to all political parties to maintain peace after announcement of poll results. Mr. Gupta held an all party meeting in Kolkata yesterday in this regard. The Election Commission has also decided to retain 144 companies of Central Para-military forces in West Bengal till 23rd of this month to control post-poll law and order situation.In Tamil Nadu, counting is progressing smoothly at 91 Centres. 234 Observers have been appointed to monitor the process.In Kerala, counting is underway at 64 Centres for 140 assembly constituencies. 81 observers have been deployed for the process.In Assam, counting is progressing peacefully at 48 Centres for 126 Assembly seats. 80 observers have been deputed to ensure trouble-free counting of votes in the state.In Puducherry, Electronic Voting Machines will be opened at 8.30 AM after the counting of postal ballots. 4 Centres have been set up to conduct the counting. 12 Observers have been deputed to supervise the process.In Andhra Pradesh, the counting of votes is also underway for Kadapa Lok Sabha and Pulivendula Assembly constituencies by-polls. The counting of votes is also underway for the by-elections in Channapatna, Bangarpet and Jagalur Assembly constituencies in Karnataka.The counting of votes for the by-election to Aonglenden Assembly Constituency in Nagaland is also progressing smoothly at Mokokchung town.Counting is also underway for Bastar Lok Sabha bypoll in Chhatisgarh.