Mamata Banerjee Challenges Election Commission’s Revised Poll Data

02.05.2024: Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised concerns regarding discrepancies in the voting figures released by the Election Commission. She pointed out that in areas where the BJP is expected to receive fewer votes compared to her Trinamool Congress, the turnout data has mysteriously increased.

Mamata Banerjee expressed her alarm over the sudden rise in voting percentages, particularly in areas where the BJP’s support is weaker. She highlighted the issue of missing voting machines and urged the Election Commission to address the suspicions raised by these irregularities.

During a recent statement, Banerjee emphasized the need for the Election Commission to operate independently and ensure transparency in the electoral process. She criticized the Commission for its handling of the revised polling figures, questioning how such discrepancies could occur.

The controversy arises amidst Bengal’s ongoing multi-phase elections, with the BJP aiming to strengthen its position in the state. The revised figures released by the Commission showed significant increases in voter turnout compared to initial reports.

This development follows a recent endorsement of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) by the Supreme Court, which dismissed calls for a return to paper ballots. The court cited the benefits of EVMs in curbing malpractices like booth capturing and reducing invalid votes during the counting process.

As the debate over electoral integrity continues, Mamata Banerjee’s questioning of the Election Commission’s revised figures underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in democratic processes.

 From – NDTV