The Election Commission of India has taken the unprecedented step of ordering a complete re-poll in all 285 polling booths of the Falta constituency due to serious allegations of violence and EVM tampering. This decision follows significant disruptions during the original polling held on April 29, 2026.
Key details of the re-polling:
- The re-polling is scheduled for May 21, 2026, from 7 AM to 6 PM.
- The counting of votes will occur on May 24, 2026.
- Voter turnout during the initial phase was approximately 93.48%.
Officials from the Election Commission cited multiple complaints regarding electoral malpractices as the primary reason for this extensive re-poll exercise. Observers have noted that such measures reflect growing concerns over electoral integrity in the region.
In response to these developments, the Election Commission has deployed additional counting observers and police to ensure a secure and transparent environment during the voting and counting processes. They emphasized that voters must carry valid identity proof to participate in the upcoming re-poll.
This situation highlights ongoing issues surrounding electoral integrity in West Bengal, particularly as it relates to EVM tampering and voter turnout. The upcoming re-poll will be closely monitored by various stakeholders aiming to ensure fair elections.