EVM Tampering Claims Rock West Bengal as Counting Looms
Kolkata, West Bengal – With just days remaining before the vote count in the West Bengal Assembly elections, allegations of electronic voting machine (EVM) tampering have ignited a political firestorm. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited a strong room in Bhabanipur, Kolkata, late Thursday night, voicing concerns over potential manipulation and accusing the Election Commission of India (ECI) of bias.
Banerjee Alleges Manipulation, Visits Strong Room
Mamata Banerjee, contesting against Suvendu Adhikari, stated her party had received reports of “manipulation” in several parts of the state. She explained that after seeing what she perceived as suspicious activity on CCTV footage, she felt compelled to inspect the strong room firsthand. “In many places, manipulation is taking place… When I saw the CCTV on TV, I thought I should also go and see it,” she said, according to the Times of India.
Banerjee also alleged obstruction from Central forces during her visit, noting that although initially denied entry, she was ultimately allowed access to the sealed room as per election rules for candidates and their agents.
Trinamool Congress Protests, Vows ‘Life and Death’ Fight
Accusing the ECI of bias, Banerjee declared that her party would fight “life and death” if anyone attempted to steal EVMs or manipulate the counting process. “Our agent has been arrested. there has been so much one-sidedness. Even after that, if someone tries to steal the EVM machine, if someone tries to steal the counting, then we will fight life and death together,” she stated, as reported by the Times of India.
The Trinamool Congress issued a statement asserting that any “wrongdoing” or “heavy-handed tactic” by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Central forces would be met with a democratic response. Banerjee simultaneously appealed for calm, urging citizens to maintain peace during this sensitive period, while expressing confidence in her party’s victory.
Election Commission Responds, Urges Calm
The Election Commission of India has responded to the allegations, urging the public not to spread rumors. NDTV reports that the ECI has not yet issued a detailed statement addressing the specific claims of manipulation.
Exit Polls Predict BJP Victory
Despite the Trinamool Congress’s strong stance, most exit polls project a victory for the BJP, potentially ending the TMC’s 15-year rule. Chanakya Strategies estimated the BJP could win 150–160 seats in the 294-member Assembly, while the TMC may secure 30–40 seats, according to the Times of India.
Record Voter Turnout
The elections in West Bengal witnessed a record voter turnout, marking the highest participation rate since independence.
Looking Ahead
As the counting of votes approaches, the allegations of EVM tampering have heightened tensions in West Bengal. The ECI’s response and the outcome of the vote count will be crucial in determining the future political landscape of the state.