A political controversy erupted in Kolkata after leaders of the Trinamool Congress staged a sit-in protest outside an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) strongroom at Netaji Indoor Stadium, alleging that ballot boxes were being accessed without the presence of authorised party representatives. The protest, led by state minister Shashi Panja and party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh, both candidates in the recent Assembly elections, quickly drew attention amid heightened post-poll tensions in West Bengal.
The Trinamool Congress claimed that unusual activity was observed inside the secured facility housing EVMs from several constituencies in north Kolkata. Party leaders questioned how individuals were seen inside a sealed strongroom and demanded clarity on what they described as “unauthorised movement” within the premises. They further alleged that despite the strongroom being sealed after polling, certain materials and personnel were visible inside, raising concerns about procedural transparency.
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However, the Bharatiya Janata Party strongly rejected these allegations. Senior leader Tapas Roy dismissed the claims as “pure rumours,” accusing the Trinamool Congress of attempting to create unnecessary panic and distrust in the electoral process. He stated that he also visited the site and found no irregularities, insisting that the ruling party was spreading misinformation out of fear.
The Election Commission of India responded by clarifying that all strongrooms had been properly sealed and secured following the conclusion of polling. It confirmed that EVMs were safely stored under strict surveillance, with CCTV monitoring and central security deployment in place. The Commission also noted that postal ballots were kept separately under standard procedures.
With counting scheduled for May 4 under heavy security arrangements, tensions remain high as both major political parties continue to exchange allegations. The Election Commission has already deployed extensive central forces to ensure a smooth and secure counting process across the state.
