Kolkata Strong Room Row: TMC Protests EVM Tampering Claims, EC Denies All Charges

Tensions flared in Kolkata ahead of vote counting as leaders and workers of Trinamool Congress staged protests outside strong rooms, alleging tampering with EVMs and postal ballots. The controversy escalated after the party released CCTV footage claiming suspicious activity inside restricted areas without the presence of authorized representatives. Senior leaders, including Mamata Banerjee, personally visited strong room locations, intensifying the political standoff. Banerjee accused officials and central forces of preventing her entry initially, stating that candidates and their agents have the right to monitor sealed rooms. She further alleged manipulation of postal ballots and claimed that election processes lacked transparency. TMC leaders organized sit-ins, raising slogans and demanding accountability, while clashes and heated exchanges were reported between party workers and opposition supporters. Responding firmly, the Election Commission of India dismissed all allegations as baseless. Officials clarified that EVMs are secured under a strict three-layer security system and remain sealed until counting. They explained that the activity seen in the CCTV footage was part of a standard procedure involving segregation of postal ballots, conducted after informing all political parties in advance. According to the Commission, representatives from TMC were absent during the scheduled process despite prior notification. The situation created a high-voltage political atmosphere, with both sides trading accusations. While TMC alleged a larger conspiracy involving electoral manipulation, opposition leaders questioned Banerjee’s actions and presence inside strong room premises. Authorities deployed police and central forces to maintain order and prevent escalation. As West Bengal awaits counting day, the controversy has added to the charged political climate, raising questions about trust, transparency, and election integrity in one of India’s most closely watched electoral battles.

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