War of words, protests and EC rebuttal: What unfolded around Bengal strongrooms

Tensions escalated in Kolkata’s poll-bound constituencies as political sparring intensified following allegations of irregularities at EVM strongrooms.

BJP jibe after protest called off

BJP’s Entally candidate Priyanka Tibrewal mocked Trinamool Congress leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh after their protest outside a strongroom was withdrawn.

“Chor machaye shor,” she said, arguing that the premises were fully under CCTV surveillance and that party representatives were already stationed outside. She added that the TMC was well aware of the election process.

Bhabanipur flashpoint

In Bhabanipur, tensions flared when BJP workers stopped a TMC vehicle, alleging it was carrying “suspicious items.” Protesters refused to let it pass, claiming it could be linked to alleged irregularities.

EC rejects TMC allegations

The Election Commission of India dismissed TMC’s claims that a postal ballot strongroom was opened without due protocol. Officials clarified that:

• Eight strongrooms were set up at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra
• Seven stored EVMs, while one was designated for postal ballots
• The postal ballot room was opened in the presence of party representatives, including those invited from TMC

Authorities said the process—segregating postal ballots before dispatch—was conducted strictly under rules by designated officials.

What TMC alleged

The All India Trinamool Congress claimed ballot boxes were accessed without authorised representatives present, triggering protests and a dharna outside Netaji Indoor Stadium.

Leaders Panja and Ghosh cited CCTV footage, alleging outsiders were seen “fiddling with ballot papers.” Ghosh further questioned why the strongroom was reopened after party workers had left, alleging selective access.

Mamata’s intervention and BJP response

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited a strongroom in Bhabanipur late Thursday, saying her party would resist any attempt to tamper with EVMs. She claimed to have acted on reports of irregularities across the state.

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari countered by saying his polling agent was present to monitor the situation and shared CCTV visuals, alleging strict vigilance during Banerjee’s visit.

Exit poll battle lines

Amid the controversy, exit polls added fuel to the political contest. Pollster Chanakya projected a sweeping win for the BJP in West Bengal, while other agencies suggested a tight contest with the TMC. In other states, projections pointed to a DMK win in Tamil Nadu, NDA advantage in Assam, and a close race in Kerala.

Results date

The Election Commission of India said counting for West Bengal, along with Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, will take place on May 4.

As accusations and counter-accusations continue, the focus now shifts to counting day, with both sides bracing for a high-stakes outcome.