TMC's Allegations Erupt
Significant political drama unfolded in Kolkata following accusations by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) concerning the alleged tampering of ballot boxes
within EVM strongrooms. This led to a sit-in protest, or dharna, staged by key party figures. The allegations surfaced shortly after a considerable presence of Kolkata Police in anti-riot gear was observed outside the Netaji Indoor Stadium, a location central to the dispute. According to TMC candidate Kunal Ghosh, party representatives were present until mid-afternoon, after which an email was received stating the strongroom would be reopened. Ghosh expressed concern that crucial stakeholders were not adequately informed and alleged that the BJP was being granted preferential access. He questioned the movement of ballot papers and the Election Commission's (EC) statements amid these developments, particularly regarding the handling of postal ballots and the lack of prior notification.
EC's Official Response
The Election Commission of India (ECI) promptly issued a clarification to counter the tampering allegations, asserting that the segregation of ballots was conducted with prior notification to all involved political parties via email. The ECI provided a nine-point response addressing concerns raised. It confirmed that seven AC strong rooms at the Kgudiram Anushilan Kendra were securely closed and sealed in the presence of candidates or their agents and the General Observer, with the last strong room sealed around 5:15 AM. The ECI emphasized that all strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safe and sealed. Furthermore, it clarified the presence of a separate strong room for postal ballots, where polled ballots are kept segregated by AC. The ECI stated that all observers, ROs, and subsequently, political parties were informed via mail about the segregation process, which commenced at 4 PM in the corridor of the strong room premises. The ECI also confirmed that the main strong rooms remained securely locked and that key political figures, including Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh from TMC, along with Kali from BJP, were shown the proceedings.
Mamata's 'Guard EVMs' Call
These events followed an earlier appeal from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging party workers to remain vigilant and safeguard EVM strongrooms throughout the night. Banerjee expressed her belief that the BJP had orchestrated a 'final game,' suggesting that market fluctuations indicated a potential manipulation of actual results. She implored supporters to stay united and closely monitor the counting process, hinting at possibilities of data alteration in computers to favor the BJP. As a candidate herself, she declared her intention to personally visit the counting hall if necessary, emphasizing the urgency to 'save Bengal' after the considerable efforts already expended by the party and its followers.
Exit Poll Projections
Amidst the election-related tensions, various exit polls offered divergent predictions for West Bengal's political landscape. Matrize suggested that the TMC+ alliance might narrowly miss a majority, forecasting 125–140 seats for them, while giving the BJP an edge with 146–161 seats. P-Marq echoed a similar competitive scenario, projecting the BJP to win 150–175 seats and the TMC 118–138 seats, with a few seats for other parties. Poll Diary, however, predicted a clearer victory for the BJP, estimating 142–171 seats and placing the TMC between 99–127 seats. In contrast, Today's Chanakya indicated a significant sweep for the BJP, predicting over 192 seats, with the TMC and its allies securing around 100 seats. A notably different projection came from People’s Pulse, which suggested the incumbent TMC government could retain power, albeit with a reduced tally of 177–187 seats (down from 215), while the BJP was expected to secure 95–110 seats.
