The Election Commission (EC) has firmly dismissed allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) tampering made by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) during the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026. In a statement released on Thursday, the EC asserted that all strongrooms where EVMs are stored remain completely secure and under strict surveillance. The commission emphasized that any claims of manipulation are baseless and urged political parties to refrain from spreading misinformation that could undermine the electoral process.
Post-Poll Tensions Amid Heavy Rain
As voting concluded in several phases, tensions escalated between supporters of the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) outside polling stations. Chants of 'Jai Bangla' from TMC supporters were met with counter-slogans of 'Jai Shree Ram' from BJP workers, creating a charged atmosphere. Heavy showers in Kolkata and other parts of the state further complicated the situation, as security forces struggled to maintain order and prevent any escalation into violence. The EC has deployed additional personnel to sensitive areas to ensure peace.
EC's Response to Allegations
The TMC had earlier raised concerns about possible EVM tampering, citing discrepancies in voting patterns. However, the EC conducted a thorough review and found no evidence to support these claims. The commission reiterated that all EVMs are sealed and stored in strongrooms with multi-layered security, including CCTV cameras and armed guards. Political analysts suggest that such allegations are common during elections and often stem from pre-poll anxiety rather than factual irregularities.
Meanwhile, the counting of votes is scheduled to begin on May 2, with results expected later that day. Both major parties are confident of victory, but the EC has called for calm and urged all stakeholders to trust the electoral process. The commission also warned against any attempts to disrupt the counting process or spread unverified claims on social media.
