The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has alleged tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Kolkata, prompting party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to rush to the strongroom at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. The incident occurred during the counting process for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.
Protest by TMC Candidates
Two TMC candidates, Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja, initiated a sit-in protest in front of the strongroom in the evening. They alleged suspicious movement inside the facility, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The protest quickly escalated as other party workers and supporters joined them.
Allegations of Electoral Fraud
The TMC's official social media handle posted a video claiming that CCTV footage showed ballot boxes being opened without the presence of relevant party stakeholders. The party accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Election Commission of India (ECI) of collusion, calling it a 'murder of democracy' and 'gross electoral fraud'. The post included hashtags and strong language condemning the alleged actions.
Mamata Banerjee's Response
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally visited the strongroom to assess the situation. She tweeted, 'We are forming the government of mother, land, and people. Joy Bangla!' expressing confidence in her party's victory despite the alleged irregularities. Her presence highlighted the gravity of the allegations and the party's determination to ensure a fair counting process.
Background of the Elections
The West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 have been fiercely contested between the ruling TMC and the opposition BJP. The state has witnessed high political drama, with both parties trading accusations of misconduct. The counting of votes is underway, and the outcome will determine the political landscape of the state for the next five years.
Reactions from Political Circles
The BJP has denied the allegations, calling them baseless and an attempt to divert attention from the actual electoral process. The ECI has assured a transparent investigation into the claims. Meanwhile, other political parties have called for calm and urged the authorities to maintain the sanctity of the democratic process.
As tensions rise, security has been heightened around the strongroom and counting centers across Kolkata. The situation remains fluid, with the TMC vowing to continue its protest until a fair resolution is achieved.
