West Bengal By-Elections Turn Tense: Repolling at 2 Seats, BJP–TMC Clashes, Falta Erupts in Protest

West Bengal By-Polls Turn Volatile: Repolling Hit by BJP–TMC Clashes, Falta Protests, EVM Row Sparks Tension

Chaotic scenes marred repolling at 15 booths in West Bengal on Saturday as workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) clashed in South 24 Parganas.

The Election Commission had ordered repolling in Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour following allegations of electoral malpractice and vote tampering. Voting began peacefully under heavy security, with turnout crossing 72% in both constituencies by 3 pm.

Tensions escalated later in the day as clashes broke out between BJP and TMC supporters. BJP workers alleged they were prevented from voting, while the TMC accused the opposition of attempting to disrupt the process. Police resorted to lathi charge and detained several individuals.

BJP’s Falta candidate Debangshu Panda claimed that voters were intimidated at multiple booths, disrupting polling.

Fresh controversy also erupted over alleged irregularities in EVM strongrooms. The TMC accused a Returning Officer at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra of unauthorised handling of postal ballot covers. Meanwhile, the BJP alleged that a strong room was opened without authorisation, prompting an inquiry in which at least six officials have reportedly been suspended.

Falta Sees Local Protests

In Falta’s Hashim Nagar area, residents blocked roads, alleging harassment by TMC workers. Some locals claimed they were threatened with violence, while others said they were targeted despite supporting the ruling party.

TMC candidate Jehangir Khan rejected the allegations, accusing the BJP of staging the protest to influence law enforcement action ahead of counting.

CRPF officials later visited the area and assured residents of their safety. Authorities said a report has been sought, while police warned against blocking highways, citing ongoing polling activity.

EC Tightens Security Ahead of Counting

The Election Commission has deployed 165 additional counting observers and 77 police observers across the state to ensure a smooth counting process.

Stricter access control has also been introduced, with entry to counting centres restricted to QR code-based photo identity cards issued through the ECINet system.

Supreme Court Declines TMC Plea

The Supreme Court declined to issue further directions on the TMC’s plea against the deployment of central personnel during vote counting.

A bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi upheld the Election Commission’s authority, noting that its April 13 circular allowing a mix of central and state personnel does not violate the law.

The BJP welcomed the decision, calling it a setback for the TMC and a reaffirmation of the integrity of the electoral process.