Allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) tampering have emerged from Booth Number 177 in Devipur, located in the Falta constituency of South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal. The incident has triggered a fresh political row, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding immediate action and a repoll in the affected areas.
Details of the Alleged Tampering
Reports indicate that the BJP's election symbol on the EVM was allegedly covered with tape during the polling process. This discovery led to immediate tension at the booth, as party workers and polling officials gathered at the site. BJP candidate for the Falta assembly seat, Debangshu Panda, was present at the location when the irregularity was reported. The situation reportedly caused unrest among party workers and officials, who demanded clarification and corrective measures.
BJP's Response and Allegations
Following the incident, BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya alleged that similar irregularities were observed at multiple booths across the constituency. He claimed that the BJP voting options were systematically blocked using tape, preventing voters from casting their ballots for the party. Malviya called for an immediate repoll in the affected areas and described the incident as part of what he termed the “Diamond Harbour Model,” linking the allegations to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee. He urged the Election Commission to intervene urgently and take necessary action.
Malviya further stated that such actions undermine the democratic process and demanded a thorough investigation. The BJP has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in the constituency, with party leaders emphasizing the need for transparency.
Political Reactions and Context
The allegations have sparked a political row, with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) dismissing the claims as baseless. TMC leaders have accused the BJP of making false allegations to create unrest and divert attention from other issues. The Election Commission has not yet issued an official confirmation or response regarding the claims. At this stage, the allegations remain unverified, and no official action has been announced.
The incident adds to the ongoing tensions during the West Bengal assembly elections, where multiple allegations of irregularities have been reported from various constituencies. The BJP has been vocal about its concerns regarding EVM tampering, while the TMC maintains that the elections are being conducted fairly.
Demand for Repoll
The BJP has formally demanded a repoll in the booths where irregularities were allegedly observed. Party leaders argue that the tampering could have affected the outcome of the election in Falta. They have called for the Election Commission to take swift action to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the Election Commission's response. The BJP has warned of further protests if no action is taken. Meanwhile, the TMC has urged the commission to take action against those making false allegations.
This is a developing story. More details are awaited as the Election Commission reviews the complaints.
