In Howrah, voting witnessed tension and chaos after allegations of EVM malfunction surfaced at polling booths. This led to clashes between two groups, prompting police intervention and security personnel to use force to control the situation near the booths. Voters reportedly raised slogans and complaints about EVM issues and slow voting, leading to heated arguments and a brief law-and-order disturbance. Security forces, including central paramilitary units, were deployed and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) were activated to restore order. Officials also enforced rules restricting gatherings within 100 meters of polling stations. The incident comes amid heightened security arrangements in West Bengal’s second phase polling, with over 2,300 central force companies deployed across constituencies. While authorities aim for peaceful voting, the early morning unrest in Howrah signals rising political tension and concerns over electoral conduct during the ongoing election process.


