Polling was temporarily suspended at Booth No. 65 in Budhpur village, Dubrajpur, after voters alleged an EVM glitch where votes for the Trinamool candidate were reportedly going to the BJP. The issue surfaced after around 200 votes had been cast, triggering protests at the booth. Election officials halted voting and informed the administration, with engineers expected to inspect the machines.
Escalation of Tensions
The situation soon escalated as clashes broke out between locals and central forces. Stone-pelting and vandalism were reported, leaving a few personnel and a driver injured, while multiple vehicles were damaged. The violence disrupted the polling process and heightened tensions in the area.
Response from Authorities
Election authorities have initiated an inquiry into the EVM malfunction and the subsequent clashes. Engineers are set to examine the machines to determine the cause of the glitch. Additional security forces have been deployed to prevent further unrest.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about election integrity and security in the region. The West Bengal elections have witnessed multiple instances of violence and allegations of irregularities in previous phases. The administration is under pressure to ensure fair and peaceful polling in remaining phases.
