Repolling conducted in South 24 Parganas booths
Fresh voting was held across 15 polling booths in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district after allegations of irregularities and suspected EVM tampering during the earlier phase of the Assembly elections. The Election Commission of India ordered the repoll following field reports from election officials and complaints raised by multiple political parties. Out of the affected booths, 11 are in Magrahat Paschim and four fall under Diamond Harbour constituency, with polling conducted under strict security arrangements from morning to evening hours.
EVM irregularities trigger electoral action
The decision for repolling came after reports suggested obstruction in voting machines and other procedural concerns during polling day. Election authorities stated that any verified disruption in voting equipment or process integrity would result in fresh polling to ensure fairness. The move has intensified scrutiny over the electoral process in the region, already marked by high voter participation and political sensitivity.
Political war of words between BJP and TMC
The repolling decision quickly escalated into a political confrontation between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress. While the BJP welcomed the Election Commission’s move, it also demanded that more booths be included in the repoll process, alleging wider irregularities in certain segments. The Trinamool Congress rejected these claims, accusing the opposition of attempting to undermine the credibility of the election process through unverified allegations.
Suvendu Adhikari reacts on repolling decision
Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari commented on the situation, stating, “Whatever happened at Magrahat West is welcomed. The re-polling should have happened in more booths in Diamond Harbour and in the whole of the Falta segment… There is a system and procedure which is being followed… We respect the Election Commission…” His remarks further fueled the ongoing debate between the rival parties over the extent of voting irregularities.
High turnout and focus on counting day
The broader election phase in West Bengal witnessed an estimated turnout of around 90 percent, reflecting strong voter participation across constituencies. With repolling now completed in select booths, attention has shifted to the upcoming counting process scheduled for May 4. Authorities have tightened security around strong rooms and counting centers as the state awaits a closely watched electoral outcome amid ongoing political tensions.
