A significant fire at the South 24 Parganas Zilla Parishad building in Kolkata has resulted in the destruction of approximately 4,000 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) stored on the eighth and ninth floors, according to officials. The blaze broke out on June 10 and has sparked questions after preliminary findings indicated it may have originated on the third or fourth floor, while the intervening floors suffered only limited damage.
Fire Incident Details
The fire was reported late in the evening on June 10, and firefighting teams were dispatched immediately. It took several hours to bring the blaze under control. The building, a ten-storey government structure, houses multiple state departments and offices. The EVMs were stored in a secure area on the upper floors, which were heavily impacted by the fire.
Preliminary Findings and Investigation
Fire Minister Kaushik Chowdhury stated that forensic teams are currently investigating the cause and the unusual spread of the fire. The fact that the fire started on a lower floor but caused maximum damage to the upper floors has raised suspicions. Officials are examining evidence from the scene to determine if foul play was involved.
An FIR has been registered in connection with the incident. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses. The Election Commission has been informed, and a detailed report is expected soon.
Impact on Elections
The destruction of 4,000 EVMs is a major setback. Officials are assessing the extent of the damage and whether the machines can be repaired or replaced. This incident could affect upcoming elections in the region, as EVMs are critical for the voting process.
Further updates are awaited as the investigation continues.
