The Election Commission of India has scheduled re-polling at 15 polling booths in Magrahat (Paschim) and Diamond Harbour constituencies in South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal. Out of these, 11 booths are in Magrahat (Paschim) and 4 in Diamond Harbour. The decision for re-polling follows complaints of electoral malpractices during the second phase of Assembly elections held on April 29.
Based on reports from returning officers and general observers citing large-scale malpractices, the Election Commission of India took the decision for re-polling. Additionally, there are indications of potential re-polling at around 30 booths in the Falta Assembly constituency within the Diamond Harbour subdivision. The investigation into alleged malpractices was conducted by a special observer appointed by the Election Commission of India.
The Bharatiya Janata Party’s West Bengal unit had earlier demanded re-polling for the entire Falta Assembly constituency due to reported issues with Electronic Voting Machine buttons. Tensions had escalated even before the elections in Falta, involving clashes between the Election Commission of India-appointed special police observer and the Trinamool Congress candidate. Electoral violence incidents were also reported on the polling day, with clashes between Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party supporters.
