BackPOLITICS
West Bengal: Birbhum deploys 37 security companies for vote count ahead of results
Birbhum district in West Bengal has tightened security for the counting process, with at least 37 security force companies deployed and entry checks at counting centres. Counting began on May 4 amid exit polls signaling a tight BJP-TMC contest, and a repoll order in Falta highlighted ongoing tensions. Kolkata and other areas also saw heightened security ahead of counting day.
Why It Matters
The timeline shows the level of security and procedural tensions surrounding the vote count in a closely watched state election, including a repoll order that could affect outcomes and disputes at counting centres.
Timeline
8 Events
Exit polls project a tight Bengal contest
May 4, 2026
Exit polls project a tight contest between BJP and TMC. Some projections, including Chanakya Strategies and Matrize, give an edge to BJP; others predict a closer race with TMC retaining a significant share. Smaller parties are expected to play a limited role.
Birbhum constituencies listed
May 4, 2026
Birbhum contains 7 assembly constituencies: 284-Dubrajpur (SC), 285-Suri, 286-Bolpur, 287-Nanoor (SC), 290-Mayureswar, 291-Rampurhat, 292-Hansan, and 294-Murarai.
Security tightened in Kolkata ahead of counting day
May 4, 2026
Security tightened across Kolkata ahead of counting day, with heavy deployment outside strongrooms including Sakhawat Memorial Government Girls' High School in Bhabanipur and Netaji Indoor Stadium, among others.
BJP counters allegations on identity cards
May 4, 2026
BJP accused TMC polling agents of not carrying identity cards to enter polling stations.
Verbal spat between polling agents at counting centres
May 4, 2026
A dispute arose as TMC alleged that BJP polling agents were allowed to take files and pens inside counting centres, while TMC agents faced restrictions.
Repolling ordered in Falta constituency
May 4, 2026
Election Commission of India ordered repolling in all polling booths of Falta constituency after reports of alleged electoral malpractice.
Counting begins for the assembly
May 4, 2026
The counting for the 294 assembly began at 8 AM today.
Security deployment in Birbhum ahead of vote count
May 4, 2026
Birbhum local police deployed at least 37 companies of security forces across the district for the vote count, with three-layer security and proactive checking; entry to counting centres allowed only after proper checking.