Serious allegations of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) tampering have emerged during the second phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly Elections. The accusations specifically point to the Falta seat, which falls under the high-profile Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency. BJP candidate Debangshu Panda claimed that buttons next to his name and party symbol on several EVMs were taped, preventing voters from casting their ballots for the BJP. These claims have cast a shadow over the electoral process in a region considered a stronghold of Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

What Happened?

During the ongoing second phase of voting for the West Bengal Assembly Elections, a major controversy erupted in the Falta assembly segment. BJP candidate Debangshu Panda, who is contesting from this seat, reported severe irregularities concerning the EVMs. He alleged that at multiple polling booths, the buttons corresponding to his name and the BJP's election symbol were covered with tape. This act, he stated, effectively blocked voters from selecting his party, raising serious questions about the fairness of the electoral exercise.

Further amplifying these claims, Amit Malviya, the chief of BJP's IT Cell, shared videos on social media platform 'X'. These videos allegedly showed taped EVM buttons. Malviya called it a "Diamond Harbour Model," accusing the TMC of blocking BJP voting options at booths like 144, 170, and 189. Some videos also suggested CPM buttons were taped, though the Left party has not commented. The West Bengal Election Commissioner has since issued a strict warning. The commission stated it would verify the allegations. If found true, re-polling will be conducted at those specific booths.

This incident follows previous tensions. Before polling, TMC candidate Jahangir Khan, close to Abhishek Banerjee, had a heated exchange with police observer Ajay Pal Sharma, who warned him against obstruction. On polling day, Khan remained in his 'war room' amid tensions between his supporters and police. Diamond Harbour is Abhishek Banerjee's political bastion, and its electoral outcomes are vital for TMC's leadership. Opposition parties often allege strong-arm tactics in the area. These accusations of EVM tampering are not new in West Bengal, with similar controversies arising during the 2021 elections and other polls. This time, additional central forces and NIA were deployed to ensure peaceful voting.

Key Highlights

BJP candidate Debangshu Panda alleged EVM tampering in Falta, Diamond Harbour, during West Bengal elections.
Buttons next to BJP's name and symbol were reportedly taped, preventing votes for the party.
BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya shared videos on 'X', calling it the "Diamond Harbour Model" and citing specific booth numbers.
The West Bengal Election Commissioner has issued a strict warning, promising re-polling if allegations of taped buttons are verified.
Reports suggest that some machines were rectified quickly, allowing voting to continue smoothly after complaints.
Diamond Harbour is a key constituency and stronghold of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, adding political significance to these allegations.
Similar allegations of electoral malpractices and EVM controversies have been reported in West Bengal elections in the past, including in 2021.

Why Does This Matter?

Allegations of EVM tampering, particularly the physical obstruction of voting options, strike at the very heart of democratic principles. For common people, it undermines faith in the electoral system and the belief that their vote truly counts. When voters arrive at a polling booth to find their chosen party's option blocked, it creates a sense of disenfranchisement and suspicion. This directly impacts the transparency and fairness of elections, which are fundamental pillars of any healthy democracy. Such incidents can deter participation and lead to widespread public mistrust, making it harder for citizens to accept the legitimacy of election results.

The swift response from the West Bengal Election Commissioner, promising verification and potential re-polling, is crucial in reassuring the public. It demonstrates the commission's commitment to upholding electoral integrity. However, the recurring nature of such allegations in West Bengal, including during the 2021 elections, highlights a deeper challenge. In a high-stakes political battleground like Diamond Harbour, where political prestige is deeply invested, ensuring free and fair elections becomes even more critical. The deployment of NIA and additional central forces this time aimed to maintain peace, but these fresh allegations indicate that vigilance against electoral malpractices remains paramount for safeguarding the democratic process and ensuring every citizen's right to choose is protected.