Mamata Banerjee Warns on EVM Security Ahead of Bengal Vote Count, Calls It ‘Life-and-Death’ Issue

Mamata Banerjee has issued a strong warning over alleged irregularities in electronic voting machines (EVMs), stating that any attempt to tamper with them would lead to a “life-and-death” fight. Her remarks came after she spent more than three hours inside a strongroom in Kolkata, reviewing the situation amid rising political tensions.

Banerjee visited the EVM strongroom at Sakhawat Memorial School in South Kolkata, which serves the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency. Her visit followed reports of suspicious activity and allegations raised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding potential lapses in the handling of election materials. She said she decided to inspect the site personally after noticing concerning visuals related to strongroom operations.

After stepping out, the Chief Minister struck a defiant tone, warning that any attempt to manipulate EVMs or interfere with the counting process would not be tolerated. She reiterated her commitment to safeguarding the electoral process and said she would continue to fight against any irregularities throughout her political life.

The controversy has intensified ahead of the vote counting scheduled for May 4, with the TMC alleging a broader conspiracy involving electoral malpractice. The party has also urged its leaders and workers to remain vigilant and closely monitor strongrooms and counting centres to prevent any possible tampering.

The Election Commission of India has rejected all allegations, maintaining that strongrooms are securely sealed and monitored under strict protocols. Officials have assured that the counting process will be conducted in a transparent manner, even as political tensions continue to rise in the state.