Elections – Repolling Ordered in Bengal After EVM Tampering Allegations
Elections – Repolling is taking place across 15 polling stations in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district on Saturday, following instructions from the Election Commission of India. The move comes after complaints of possible tampering with electronic voting machines during the second phase of the Assembly elections held on April 29.
Repolling Locations and Schedule
Election authorities confirmed that fresh voting is being conducted in specific areas identified during a review of polling irregularities. Out of the 15 booths, 11 are located in the Magrahat Paschim Assembly constituency, while the remaining four fall under the Diamond Harbour Assembly segment.
Polling began early in the morning and is scheduled to continue until 6 pm. Officials stated that the decision was based on reports submitted by local election authorities, which pointed to procedural concerns requiring corrective action.
Political Reactions Intensify
The decision to hold repolling has triggered strong reactions from major political parties in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party welcomed the Election Commission’s intervention, arguing that similar measures should be extended to additional polling stations where irregularities were suspected.
In contrast, the ruling Trinamool Congress dismissed the allegations and accused the BJP of attempting to undermine the state’s electoral process. Party leaders described the claims as politically motivated and aimed at damaging the state’s reputation.
Allegations of Voting Disruptions
The controversy stems from allegations raised by BJP leaders during the second phase of voting. According to party representatives, voters in certain booths—particularly in the Falta area of the Diamond Harbour constituency—were allegedly prevented from selecting their preferred candidate.
These claims prompted closer scrutiny by election officials, ultimately leading to the decision for repolling in affected booths.
Concerns Over EVM Handling
Further claims emerged regarding the handling of electronic voting machines. BJP leaders alleged that symbols on the machines were tampered with, including reports of buttons being covered.
A senior political leader stated that such incidents, if verified, represent serious violations of electoral norms. However, he also noted that strict monitoring by central forces and election authorities ensured that, overall, voters were able to cast their ballots without fear in most areas.
Election Officials Respond
West Bengal’s Chief Electoral Officer clarified that any verified instance of tampering would automatically trigger repolling in the affected booths. Officials emphasized that all complaints are thoroughly examined before action is taken, ensuring transparency in the process.
Authorities reiterated that maintaining the integrity of the voting process remains their top priority and that corrective steps would continue wherever necessary.
Political Tensions Ahead of Counting Day
As the state moves closer to the vote-counting date, political rhetoric has intensified. Opposition leaders have made sharp remarks regarding the state leadership, suggesting that recent developments reflect growing pressure ahead of the results.
Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress has rejected such claims, maintaining confidence in its electoral performance and dismissing opposition criticism as unfounded.
High Voter Turnout and Security Measures
The final phase of polling concluded on April 29 with a notably high voter turnout, reportedly reaching around 90 percent before the close of voting. Officials described the participation level as a strong indicator of public engagement in the electoral process.
Security has been tightened across strong rooms, particularly in Howrah, where electronic voting machines are being stored ahead of the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. Authorities have assured that all necessary safeguards are in place to prevent any tampering or unauthorized access.
The ongoing repolling and heightened political exchanges underscore the significance of this election, with all eyes now on the final results in the coming days.