EC probes 77 EVM malfunction complaints in WB
Kolkata: Amidst questions raised regarding the security and transparency of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at several centers-including Diamond Harbour-during the second phase of polling in Bengal, the Election Commission has now shifted into "action mode." To uphold the integrity of the electoral process, the Commission has initiated a "high-level" inquiry.
All eyes are now specifically fixed on the situation in the Diamond Harbour constituency, where Special Roll Observer Subrata Gupta personally inspected the strong rooms.
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'Special Scrutiny' in the Strong Room
The presence of Subrata Gupta at the strong room located within Diamond Harbour Women's College-where EVM machines are being kept under tight security-has intensified political activity in the region.
According to reports, he is conducting a thorough examination of the sealing of the machines, security protocols, and storage procedures. The Commission has issued clear directives stating that the decision regarding whether or not re-polling is required in the area will be determined solely based on the report generated from this on-the-ground inspection.
77 Complaints Prompt Commission's Strict Stance
It is not just Diamond Harbour; a total of 77 serious complaints alleging EVM tampering and malfunctions have been registered from various parts of the state during the second phase of polling. Adopting a strict stance regarding these complaints, the Election Commission has begun scrutinizing webcast footage and reports submitted by the concerned booth officials.
Delivering a clear message on this matter, Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer, Manoj Agarwal, stated that the Commission is operating under a "zero-tolerance" policy. He gave assurances that wherever instances of EVM tampering or technical irregularities are confirmed, re-polling will be conducted without any delay.
Political Allegations and Administrative Proactiveness
Since the conclusion of polling, the BJP has leveled several serious allegations, including claims that tape was affixed to the buttons of EVMs. The opposition claims that transparency was compromised at several polling booths within the Diamond Harbour area of the South 24 Parganas district. Amidst these allegations, the decision to dispatch a special observer is being viewed as a testament to the Election Commission's proactiveness and impartiality.
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It is a common topic of discussion in administrative circles that Subrata Gupta's report will ultimately determine the future course of this election. The Commission will not give its final seal of approval to any decision until this scrutiny process is complete and the report has been submitted. Currently, the examination of evidence is proceeding with the utmost vigilance.
