Kolkata, April 18: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday accused the Election Commission of India of planning “slow polling” and “slow counting” in the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections in the state, alleging that the strategy is aimed at disrupting Trinamool Congress polling and counting arrangements.
Addressing a campaign rally in Uluberia in Kolkata district, Banerjee claimed that initial results would be projected in a way that suggests the Trinamool Congress is trailing in several constituencies. She alleged that such projections were intended to mislead voters and demoralise party agents engaged in polling and counting duties.
She urged supporters and party workers not to be influenced by early trends or alleged projections, asserting confidence in the party’s eventual victory. Referring to the political contest, she said that while opposing forces may attempt to influence perceptions, the Trinamool Congress would secure a stronger mandate than in the 2021 Assembly elections.
During the rally, Banerjee also criticised central investigative agencies following search operations conducted by Income Tax and Enforcement Directorate officials at multiple locations in and around Kolkata a day earlier. The searches reportedly included residences and offices linked to a party leader, an election candidate, and a proposer in her nomination papers.
The Chief Minister alleged that central agencies disproportionately target Trinamool Congress leaders while ignoring opposition parties. She claimed that party members remain unaffected by financial inducements and continue to engage in political resistance.
Banerjee also made allegations regarding the political narrative around food practices in the state, claiming contradictions in positions taken by rival political actors. She said such issues were being raised alongside broader political disputes in the state.
Further, she expressed apprehension over the integrity of electronic voting machines (EVMs), suggesting the possibility of tampering through external interference. Advising party polling and counting agents, she said that any malfunctioning EVM should not be reused even after repair and must be replaced to ensure electoral integrity.
The remarks come at a time when election preparations are intensifying in West Bengal, with political parties increasing outreach activities and raising concerns over electoral processes ahead of the polls.
