12. Procedure before the commencement of poll.-

(1) The presiding officer shall, immediately before the commencement of the poll, allow inspection of the ballot box to be used at the poll to such candidates and authorised representatives of candidates as may be present at the place of polling.

(2) The presiding officer shall then secure and seal the box in such manner that the slit for the insertion of ballot papers remains open, and shall also allow such candidates and authorised representatives of candidates as may be present to affix their own seals, if they so desire.