The Election Commission of India has dismissed allegations of irregularities at a strongroom in Kolkata, stating that the claims “have no merit” following protests and a sit-in demonstration by leaders and workers of the All India Trinamool Congress.
The controversy erupted after TMC members alleged suspicious activity near a strongroom where electronic voting machines and election-related materials were reportedly stored. Party leaders staged a sit-in protest outside the facility, demanding clarification and enhanced monitoring arrangements.
Responding to the allegations, election authorities said all procedures related to strongroom security were being followed strictly in accordance with Election Commission guidelines. Officials stated that the premises remained under continuous surveillance through CCTV monitoring, multi-layered security deployment, and the presence of representatives from political parties.
“The allegations regarding irregularities in the Kolkata strongroom have no merit,” election officials reportedly clarified, adding that the claims were verified and found to be baseless after inspection and review.
According to officials, authorized personnel movement in and around the strongroom was properly documented and monitored. Authorities also said that political party representatives had been allowed to observe security arrangements as per established electoral protocols.
TMC leaders, however, maintained that their protest was aimed at ensuring complete transparency and safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process. Party workers reportedly remained at the site for several hours, raising slogans and demanding assurances from election authorities.
The BJP criticized the protest, accusing the ruling party in West Bengal of attempting to create unnecessary controversy around the electoral process. Political tensions in the state have remained high amid closely watched elections and intense campaigning between rival parties.
Strongrooms storing EVMs and election documents are considered highly sensitive locations during elections and are typically guarded by central security forces, monitored round-the-clock, and subject to strict procedural controls.
Election experts noted that allegations involving EVM security frequently become politically sensitive issues, especially in states witnessing closely contested elections. The Election Commission has repeatedly emphasized that robust safeguards exist to prevent tampering or unauthorized access.
The latest dispute once again highlighted the politically charged atmosphere surrounding elections in West Bengal, where accusations and counter-accusations between major parties often intensify during counting and post-poll periods.
Despite the controversy, election authorities reiterated that the integrity of the electoral process remained fully protected and that all security protocols at the Kolkata strongroom continued to operate as per established guidelines.
