Why Bengal will see counting only in 293 of 294 seats on May 4

The Election Commission received at least 77 complaints related to tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the second phase (April 29). Reports noted instances of party-specific buttons being taped or darkened with ink to disrupt voting.

Massive protests were reported from Falta with residents alleging threats from Trinamool Congress cadre. Videos showed confrontations with police, and residents urged safety and action for those allegedly responsible.

The EC ordered repolling in Falta on May 21 across all booths, including auxiliary polling stations, due to alleged severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during voting on April 29. Voting will be held from 7 am to 6 pm, and the Falta seat results are to be declared on May 24.

The Election Commission announced that counting of votes will be conducted on May 4 for 293 of the 294 assembly seats. The EC noted that 294 constituencies voted in two phases (April 23 and 29) with a turnout of 92.47 percent; Falta’s seat is postponed due to a repoll order.

The Election Commission ordered repolling across 15 polling booths in Diamond Harbour and Magrahat Paschim in South 24 Parganas. Reported turnout was around 87 percent during the repolling held on Saturday.