PolityGS-IGS-II· 1 min read
West Bengal Assembly Elections and Electoral Malpractices Allegations
Why in news?
Allegations of unauthorised sorting of postal ballots and repolls in specific constituencies highlight concerns about electoral integrity during the West Bengal Assembly Elections.
Key points
- TMC filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the unauthorised sorting of postal ballot covers.
- Allegations of EVM strongrooms lacking CCTV coverage and trunks of postal ballots being moved suspiciously.
- ECI ordered repolls in 15 booths in South 24 Parganas district due to electoral malpractices.
- Residents of Falta protested, alleging intimidation by TMC cadre ahead of vote counting.
Background & context
West Bengal has a history of intense political competition. Allegations of electoral malpractices and violence have been a recurring issue in the state's elections.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Repolls were ordered in 11 polling stations of Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour constituencies.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1 (Indian Society - role of elections, electoral reforms), GS Paper 2 (Governance - role of ECI, electoral laws, free and fair elections).