NEW DELHI: Clashes erupted between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Saturday, as repolling was underway in 15 polling stations. Allegations surfaced that some voters were being prevented from casting their ballots, prompting a large deployment of security forces to bring the situation under control and ensure the continuation of the voting process.
Repolling in Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour
The Election Commission of India had declared the April 29 voting void in these booths following reports of irregularities. Fresh polling is being conducted from 7 am to 6 pm under heightened security arrangements. According to officials, 11 booths in Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour are undergoing repolling based on reports submitted by returning officers and election observers. The decision was taken under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Allegations of EVM Tampering
The repoll follows allegations of EVM tampering and voter obstruction in parts of Diamond Harbour’s Falta segment. BJP leaders claimed that voters were unable to select their party due to interference with the machines. In a post on X, BJP leader Amit Malviya said, "This is what Mamata Banerjee was defending when she spoke up for Jehangir Khan, a criminal contesting on a TMC ticket from Falta in Diamond Harbour. In several polling booths, the option to vote for the BJP has been blocked using a tape, effectively preventing voters from exercising their choice. This is the so-called 'Diamond Harbour Model,' the same template that helped Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee secure his Lok Sabha seat."
CEO's Response
Earlier, West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal had said complaints regarding such incidents would be examined. "If reports of taping of any button come in, that should be verified and noted. If true, those booths will go for a repoll," he said.
Security Arrangements
Authorities said extensive security arrangements have been put in place to prevent further disturbances, with central forces deployed at sensitive polling stations. The final phase of polling in the state concluded on April 29 with turnout nearing 90 percent. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, with security tightened at strong rooms in Howrah and other districts.
