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 CommissionerS Y Qureshi told media persons that an elaborate three-tier securityarrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of counting.In West Bengal, counting is underway at 87 Centres for 294 Assemblyseats. The Election Commission has appointed 312 Observers to overseethe process.Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal Sunil Gupta appealed to allpolitical parties to maintain peace after announcement of pollresults. Mr. Gupta held an all party meeting in Kolkata yesterday inthis regard. The Election Commission has also decided to retain 144companies of Central Para-military forces in West Bengal till 23rd ofthis month to control post-poll law and order situation.In Tamil Nadu, counting is progressing smoothly at 91 Centres. 234Observers have been appointed to monitor the process.In Kerala, counting is underway at 64 Centres for 140 assemblyconstituencies. 81 observers have been deployed for the process.In Assam, counting is progressing peacefully at 48 Centres for 126Assembly seats. 80 observers have been deputed to ensure trouble-freecounting of votes in the state.In Puducherry, Electronic Voting Machines will be opened at 8.30 AMafter the counting of postal ballots. 4 Centres have been set up toconduct the counting. 12 Observers have been deputed to supervise theprocess.In Andhra Pradesh, the counting of votes is also underway for KadapaLok Sabha and Pulivendula Assembly constituencies by-polls.The counting of votes is also underway for the by-elections inChannapatna, Bangarpet and Jagalur Assembly constituencies in