Tensions Rise as AITC Files Complaint Over EVM Strongroom Irregularities in West Bengal

The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has filed a complaint against the Returning Officer in West Bengal, alleging unauthorized activities in EVM strongrooms. Both AITC and BJP claim irregularities in the security of these rooms. Re-polling commenced in select constituencies amid tight security, following voter access concerns.

The political tension in West Bengal escalated as the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) lodged a formal grievance against the Returning Officer for alleged irregularities involving Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) strongrooms. The complaint, filed at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, accuses officials of unauthorized sorting of postal ballot covers, raising significant electoral integrity concerns just days before the vote count scheduled for May 4.

This development follows both AITC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expressing concerns over the security management of strongrooms, with claims that these sensitive areas were accessed without proper authorization. The Bharatiya Janata Party had earlier raised similar issues with the Bidhannagar Subdivisional Officer, resulting in the suspension of at least six officials as an investigation unfolds.

On the electoral front, the Election Commission of India (ECI) mandated a re-poll in 15 booths across Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour constituencies in the South 24 Parganas district due to voting anomalies. The re-polling process, which commenced amid heavy security, including Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployment, comes after allegations from BJP's Amit Malviya about obstructed voter access during phase two of the Assembly elections. West Bengal witnessed a remarkable voter turnout of 92.67% in this phase, underscoring high public engagement in the democratic process.