TMC vs BJP: EVM Security Under Scrutiny Amid Repolling Allegations

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Shashi Panja made a significant visit to Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday. The stadium, converted into a secure facility, is tasked with storing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) ahead of the vote counting set for May 4. Heightened security measures are in place, featuring multiple layers of barricading and personnel.

Authorities have implemented strict access regulations, allowing entry only to candidates and authorized agents in accordance with Election Commission guidelines. Panja's visit comes amidst escalating political tensions over accusations of EVM tampering. The Election Commission has mandated repolling in 15 booths in South 24 Parganas district, with voting currently ongoing in Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour constituencies due to reported irregularities during the second polling phase on April 29.

Previously, Panja accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of deliberately inciting unrest to prompt repolling and smear the state's electoral process. She alleged that this was part of the BJP's strategy to provoke opposition parties. Concurrently, BJP candidate Purnima Chakraborty countered these claims, maintaining the security of the strongroom and EVMs, while accusing Panja of fabricating a "fear of defeat" narrative. Despite the ongoing tensions, the Supreme Court of India has formed a special bench to address a TMC plea regarding supervisor deployment for vote counting. West Bengal's voter turnout reached an impressive 92.67% in the final phase, with results expected on May 4. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)