West Bengal Polls: BJP Alleges EVM Tampering, Demands Re-polling in Falta

During the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, a major controversy has erupted between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The BJP has formally accused the TMC of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the Falta constituency of Diamond Harbour. According to the allegations, tape was placed over the BJP's symbol on the machines to prevent voters from selecting their candidate. In response to these reports, State Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal has announced that re-polling will be conducted at any station where such tampering is confirmed.

Allegations of EVM Tampering and Election Commission's Stance

The BJP has raised concerns over widespread irregularities, specifically targeting the Falta seat, while state CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal addressed the situation, stating that if black or white tape is found on EVMs at any polling station, re-voting will be mandated for those specific booths. On top of that, he added that if a significant number of booths within a single assembly constituency report similar incidents, the entire constituency might face a total re-poll. The commission is currently monitoring the situation closely as voting continues across the state.

Amit Malviya Criticizes the 'Diamond Harbour Model'

BJP leader Amit Malviya took to social media to highlight the issue, naming specific locations where the alleged tampering occurred, while he accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of protecting Jahangir Khan, whom he described as a criminal contesting from the Falta seat on a TMC ticket. Malviya referred to these tactics as the "Diamond Harbour Model," alleging it was the same strategy used to secure Abhishek Banerjee's Lok Sabha victory.

TMC Counter-Allegations Against Central Forces

The Trinamool Congress has countered the BJP's claims by accusing Central Forces of brutality. The TMC alleged that central forces, operating under Union Home Minister Amit Shah, are brutally attacking and beating women voters in broad daylight. They compared these incidents to the "Sheetalkuchi terror model," claiming that innocent voters are being intimidated and terrorized across Bengal. The party stated that the resistance from the people would only grow stronger with every attack on their "mothers and sisters," asserting that the BJP would pay a heavy price for these actions when justice is delivered on May 4th.