The Election Commission of India has directed a repoll in all 285 polling stations of the Falta assembly constituency in West Bengal. The repoll is scheduled to take place on May 21. This decision comes after reports of widespread violence, intimidation, and rigging during the initial polling phase in the constituency.
Background of the Repoll Order
The original polling in Falta was marred by numerous complaints from political parties and voters. Allegations included booth capturing, tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs), and physical assaults on polling agents. The Commission, after reviewing reports from observers and security agencies, concluded that the electoral process was compromised.
Details of the Repoll
All 285 booths will undergo a fresh vote on May 21. The Commission has deployed additional central armed police forces to ensure a peaceful and fair election. Voters who were unable to cast their ballots earlier due to disruptions will be allowed to vote. The repoll will follow the same schedule as the original election, with polling hours from 7 AM to 6 PM.
Key points of the repoll:
- Repoll in all 285 booths of Falta constituency.
- Date: May 21.
- Additional security forces deployed.
- EVMs will be replaced with new machines.
Political Reactions
Political parties have reacted sharply to the Commission's decision. The ruling party in West Bengal accused the opposition of orchestrating violence to undermine the democratic process. Opposition parties, on the other hand, welcomed the repoll, stating that it was necessary to restore the credibility of the election. The Commission has urged all parties to cooperate and maintain peace.
Impact on the Election Schedule
The repoll in Falta is unlikely to affect the overall election schedule for the remaining phases in West Bengal. The Commission has assured that the results for the constituency will be declared along with other seats after the completion of all phases. Voters in Falta have been urged to come out and exercise their franchise without fear.
This is not the first instance of repoll in the ongoing West Bengal assembly elections. Earlier, the Commission had ordered repolling in a few booths in other constituencies due to similar complaints. However, the scale of the repoll in Falta is unprecedented in this election cycle.
