Trinamool Congress Voices Concerns Over EVM Hacking in West Bengal Elections
Synopsis
The Trinamool Congress has voiced serious concerns about potential hacking of EVMs in the upcoming West Bengal elections, criticizing the Election Commission for its recent bureaucratic changes and alleged links to the BJP.
Key Takeaways
Concerns over EVM tampering: Trinamool Congress warns of potential hacking attempts.
Political implications: Accusations against the Election Commission raise questions about electoral integrity.
High-stakes elections: The upcoming polls in West Bengal are vital for all political parties involved.
Kolkata, March 26 (NationPress) The Trinamool Congress has raised concerns regarding the potential for hacking of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the upcoming two-phase elections in West Bengal scheduled for next month.
Sayani Ghosh, the party's Lok Sabha member from Jadavpur in South 24 Parganas, made these statements during a press conference held in collaboration with West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu.
Ghosh remarked, "When their (referring to the BJP) strategies fail, and when the Trinamool Congress remains undeterred by threats or misuse of agencies, they resort to attempts at hacking the EVMs."
She also heavily criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) for the recent transfers and replacements of bureaucrats and police officers from West Bengal to other states.
"The ECI is essentially acting as an agent for the BJP. A total of 73 returning officers in the state have been dismissed. Previously, the state Director General of Police, the Additional Director (Law and Order), and other senior officials were transferred abruptly. This indicates a significant political controversy, with these removals being executed intentionally under the BJP's influence," Ghosh stated.
Basu echoed similar sentiments, accusing the Commission of assigning either compromised officers from other states or those affiliated with the BJP as observers in West Bengal.
"An officer connected to the BJP has been appointed as a police observer in Malda. Dheeraj Kumar, a Maharashtra cadre officer allegedly linked to an Rs 8,000 crore ambulance tender scam, has been brought in as an observer in Gajole, also in Malda. Additionally, Ajay Katisaria, known for corruption in Madhya Pradesh, has been designated as the observer for Bangaon (South) in North 24 Parganas. The BJP government subsequently exonerated him to protect his interests. Appointing such tainted officers allows the BJP to construct a framework of ‘systematic’ corruption under the guise of elections,” Basu elaborated.
Point of View
The allegations made by the Trinamool Congress regarding EVM tampering and the role of the Election Commission warrant careful scrutiny. While the party highlights significant concerns about electoral integrity, it is essential to approach these claims with a balanced perspective, considering the broader political context and implications for democracy.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations made by the Trinamool Congress regarding EVMs?
The Trinamool Congress has alleged that there are attempts to hack electronic voting machines (EVMs) for the upcoming elections in West Bengal.
Who is Sayani Ghosh?
Sayani Ghosh is a Lok Sabha member representing the Jadavpur constituency in South 24 Parganas and a prominent figure in the Trinamool Congress.
What criticism did the Trinamool Congress direct at the Election Commission?
The party criticized the Election Commission for transferring bureaucrats and police officers, alleging that these moves are politically motivated and favor the BJP.
What is the significance of the upcoming elections in West Bengal?
The upcoming two-phase elections are crucial for the political landscape of West Bengal, impacting the power dynamics between major parties.
How has the BJP responded to these allegations?
The BJP has not publicly addressed these specific allegations in this context, but typically, they assert their commitment to fair electoral processes.
