‘This is TMC’s technique’: BJP alleges party symbol ‘taped’ over in Bengal’s Falta | India News
New Delhi: The BJP on Wednesday alleged irregularities during the second phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, claiming that its party symbol was taped on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at several polling stations in Phalta under Diamond Harbor centre.West Bengal Assembly Elections — Follow Live UpdatesLeader of the Opposition and BJP candidate for Bhavanipur and Nandigram, Subvendu Adhikari said he had spoken to senior leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP leader Bhupendra Yadav about the allegations. “The Election Commission has considered. If it works in this manner, then what needs to be done will be done,” he said, adding that around 35 per cent voter turnout was recorded at the time.BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya claimed that voters were prevented from selecting the BJP option at several booths due to the use of tapes. He characterized the alleged practice as the “Diamond Harbor model” and called for immediate re-polling in the affected areas. Malviya also mentioned specific booths, including one at Harindanga High School, and claimed that several others like booth 189 were similarly compromised.Responding to the claims, the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal said that reports of any tampering would be thoroughly investigated. “If there are reports of any button tapping, it should be verified and noted. If true, those booths will go for re-polling,” the CEO said, assuring action if irregularities are confirmed.The controversy unfolded amid rapid polling in 142 constituencies in the second phase, with voter turnout reaching nearly 40 percent by 11 am. Districts like East Burdwan and Hooghly recorded some of the highest participation levels.Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed concern over the conduct of central forces and polling authorities, alleging that the “new people” brought in were acting arbitrarily.
