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CCTV lapses, ‘malpractice’: 15 Bengal booths repolling amid polling day allegations
The Election Commission ordered repolling in 15 booths in West Bengal as allegations of CCTV disruptions and EVM handling irregularities surface. Both the ruling party and the opposition exchange charges while a special observer is appointed; voting continues with counting slated for May 4.
Why It Matters
The events raise questions about transparency and trust in Bengal’s electoral process, including CCTV monitoring of EVMs and the EC’s oversight during repolling and counting.
Timeline
9 Events
Counting of votes scheduled
May 4, 2026
The Election Commission said counting of votes for the state assembly elections is scheduled for May 4.
Diamond Harbour polling stations alleged to have rampant electoral malpractices
May 2, 2026
The BJP alleged rampant electoral malpractices at certain polling stations under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency.
Anurag Thakur accuses TMC of discrediting institutions; calls for vigilance during counting
May 2, 2026
BJP MP Anurag Thakur accused the TMC of attempting to discredit institutions ahead of a likely defeat, asserting violations on polling day and urging party workers to remain vigilant during counting.
BJP alleges strong room opened early and repeatedly
May 2, 2026
BJP leader Sharadwat Mukhopadhyay claimed the EVM strong room was opened early and on multiple occasions without prior intimation, with officials allegedly unable to provide a satisfactory explanation.
Voting begins at 7 am across 15 polling stations
May 2, 2026
Voting began at 7 am on Saturday across 15 polling stations (11 in Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour) and will continue till 6 pm.
EC orders repolling in 15 booths; Subrata Gupta appointed as special observer
May 2, 2026
The Election Commission ordered repolling in 15 booths across the state and deputed special observer Subrata Gupta to verify the allegations on the ground.
TMC raises CCTV disruption concerns in a letter to CEO
May 1, 2026
TMC leader Shashi Panja wrote to the state Chief Electoral Officer raising concerns over intermittent CCTV disruptions in EVM strong rooms, requesting a full instance-wise report, complete surveillance footage and logs, and continued real-time monitoring for authorised representatives.
Phase 2 of West Bengal assembly elections held
April 29, 2026
The state assembly elections were held in two phases, with Phase 2 conducted on April 29, 2026.
Phase 1 of West Bengal assembly elections held
April 23, 2026
The state assembly elections were held in two phases, with Phase 1 conducted on April 23, 2026.