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Gatherings banned, fortification: Aftermath of TMC-BJP strong room drama in Kolkata ahead of counting
Police banned gatherings in seven areas of Kolkata ahead of vote counting after drama at two counting centres over tampering allegations. Counting centres and EVM strong rooms were fortified, including at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, as security was heightened for May 4 counting.
Why It Matters
The move underscores heightened political tension and strict security around election counting, with authorities aiming to prevent disturbances and tampering during a crucial phase of the West Bengal assembly results.
Timeline
4 Events
Counting scheduled for May 4 with enhanced security
May 1, 2026
The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, with counting centres and EVM strong rooms fortified; Khudiram Anushilan Kendra is among the fortified facilities.
Fortification of EVM strong rooms and counting centres
May 1, 2026
Officials fortified the EVM strong rooms and counting centres, including Khudiram Anushilan Kendra in north and east Kolkata, where counting and storage will take place on May 4.
Police ban gatherings in seven Kolkata areas ahead of counting
May 1, 2026
Prohibitory orders banning gatherings were enforced in seven areas of Kolkata: Sahid Kshudiram Bose Road, Judge's Court Road, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour Road, Lord Sinha Hall, Naresh Mitra Sarani (Beltala Road) and Pramathesh Barua Sarani, in the lead-up to the May 4 counting.
Drama over tampering allegations at two counting centres
April 30, 2026
On Thursday, April 30, 2026, there was high-intensity drama at two counting centres as Trinamool Congress alleged suspicious activities related to the counting process.