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The Election Commission of India (ECI) has dismissed allegations of irregularities inside a strongroom in Kolkata, saying there was “no merit” in the claims raised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) following a sit-in protest outside the facility.
The protest took place at the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, where EVMs are stored after polling, with TMC candidates alleging possible tampering and restricted access to the strongroom.
What Triggered the Protest
TMC leaders, including candidates Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh, staged a sit-in after alleging that:
- Party representatives were not being allowed inside the premises
- Activities were being carried out inside the strongroom without their presence
- CCTV footage suggested possible irregularities
The protest followed an appeal by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging party workers and polling agents to maintain continuous vigilance over EVM strongrooms.
The TMC also raised concerns on social media, alleging electoral malpractice and questioning the Election Commission’s neutrality. The party claimed that footage showed unauthorized activity and demanded greater transparency.
Election Commission’s Response
The Election Commission strongly rejected the allegations, stating that:
- All strongrooms were properly sealed after polling
- Political party agents were present during sealing
- No irregular activity was found upon verification
Officials clarified that multiple AC strongrooms inside the facility had been closed and secured in the presence of candidates, election agents, and observers. The sealing process was completed shortly after polling ended, as per procedure.
The EC also said arrangements were made for transparency, including informing all relevant officials and candidates about the sealing and storage process.
Ground Situation
Despite the EC’s clarification, TMC leaders continued their protest, demanding greater access and oversight. They argued that electoral processes must remain fully transparent, especially during the storage of EVMs before counting.
Bottom Line
The Election Commission has firmly denied any wrongdoing, stating that strongrooms remain secure and properly monitored, while the TMC continues to raise concerns over transparency and supervision ahead of vote counting.