Fresh political tension gripped parts of West Bengal after Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja staged a protest outside a strong room, alleging irregularities in the handling of postal ballots ahead of vote counting.
The demonstration took place amid heightened security, with central forces and local police deployed to guard the premises where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and postal ballots are stored. The TMC leaders, along with party workers, raised slogans and demanded immediate clarification from election authorities over what they described as the “unauthorised opening” of postal ballot boxes.
Speaking to the media, Kunal Ghosh alleged that party representatives had received information suggesting that postal ballots were being accessed without proper protocol. He claimed that such actions, if true, could compromise the integrity of the election process. Shashi Panja echoed similar concerns, urging the Election Commission to ensure complete transparency and allow representatives of all political parties to monitor every step.
The protest added to an already tense political atmosphere in the state, with the ruling TMC repeatedly expressing apprehensions about possible tampering of voting materials. Party leaders have instructed workers to remain vigilant and keep round-the-clock watch outside strong rooms until the counting of votes.
However, election officials strongly refuted the allegations, stating that no postal ballots were opened in violation of rules. According to sources in the Election Commission, all procedures related to postal ballots—such as sorting and verification—are carried out strictly as per guidelines and in the presence of authorised personnel, including candidates’ agents.
Officials clarified that what may have been interpreted as “opening” could be part of standard preparatory procedures conducted under supervision before counting day. They also emphasized that multiple layers of security, CCTV surveillance, and logbook entries are maintained to prevent any malpractice.
Meanwhile, opposition parties, particularly the BJP, accused the TMC of creating unnecessary panic. BJP leaders said the ruling party was attempting to build a narrative of electoral malpractice in advance, suggesting it reflects nervousness ahead of the results.
Political observers note that disputes over postal ballots and EVM security are not uncommon in closely contested elections. In West Bengal, where electoral battles are often intense, such confrontations tend to escalate quickly.
As counting day approaches, authorities have appealed for calm and urged all political parties to rely on official channels for information. Despite the protests and allegations, election officials maintain that the entire process remains secure and transparent.
