The Kolkata Police have imposed restrictions on public gatherings in several parts of the city ahead of vote counting, following heightened political tensions around alleged EVM irregularities.
Prohibitory orders in key areas
The restrictions apply to at least seven locations where counting activity is scheduled. These include Shahid Khudiram Bose Road, Judge's Court Road, Jadavpur, Diamond Harbour Road, Lord Sinha Hall, Naresh Mitra Sarani (Beltala Road), and Pramathesh Barua Sarani.
The move comes as authorities prepare for counting day amid concerns raised by political parties over the handling of electronic voting machines.
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Mamata Banerjee's strongroom visit
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the Bhabanipur strongroom in Kolkata and remained there for nearly four hours. During her visit, she alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Election Commission had tampered with EVMs.
She also warned that any irregularities in the counting process would be met with a "life-and-death" fight.
The visit followed the circulation of a video that appeared to show movement inside Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, where EVMs from multiple North Kolkata Assembly seats are stored. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) shared the clip, claiming lapses in the handling of election materials.
BJP and their compromised Election Commission have no idea who they are dealing with.
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) April 30, 2026
They have imported operatives from other states to swarm the area outside the Netaji Indoor Stadium, staging a media spectacle to mask their fear. We do not need to mobilize. At one command… pic.twitter.com/PHQk7K5fiQ
Political reactions intensify
The BJP criticised Banerjee's visit, calling it unnecessary and politically motivated. The party said her "theatrics this evening are perhaps the clearest exit poll for West Bengal".
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said strict monitoring was in place at the Bhabanipur strongroom and claimed Banerjee was being "kept under surveillance" to prevent any irregular activity.
Election Commission rejects claims
The Election Commission of India has denied all allegations of tampering. It stated that proper procedures were followed and all strongrooms remain secure.
Also Read | Mamata Banerjee's late-night strongroom visit, EVM claims: What unfolded in Bengal?
West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal said, "After the polling ended on Wednesday, all the strong-rooms were properly closed and sealed in the presence of the concerned candidates/election agents and observers. The last strong room was closed at 5.15 am on Thursday."
With counting scheduled to begin soon, security has been tightened around sensitive locations. Authorities are maintaining close monitoring to ensure that the process proceeds without disruption.
