Mamata Banerjee Accuses ECI of Deliberate Slowdown Tactics to Undermine TMC
Synopsis
In a fiery campaign speech, Mamata Banerjee alleges that the ECI is implementing strategies of slow polling and counting to disrupt the TMC during the upcoming elections. Will this affect the outcome?
Key Takeaways
Mamata Banerjee raises concerns about ECI's slow polling tactics.
Accusations of disinformation targeting TMC agents.
Warnings about potential EVM manipulations.
Criticism of central agencies' focus on TMC.
Claims of hypocrisy among BJP leaders regarding food policies.
Kolkata, April 18 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal and leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Mamata Banerjee, claimed on Saturday that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is orchestrating plans for “slow polling” and “slow counting” during the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections, intending to hinder TMC's agents involved in polling and counting. She stated, “The ECI has devised a strategy of ‘slow polling’ and ‘slow counting’ this time. Initially, there will be disinformation suggesting that the Trinamool Congress is lagging behind in several assembly constituencies. This tactic is aimed at misleading the public and demoralizing our polling and counting agents. However, do not be swayed or disheartened by such tactics. In the end, we shall prevail. If the BJP experiences a ‘sunrise’, the Trinamool Congress will undoubtedly bring about a sunset. We are set to secure more seats than in 2021. Just make sure that everyone is able to cast their votes,” she emphasized at a campaign rally in Uluberia, located near the Howrah district.
She further criticized the Union Government over the extensive raids conducted by the Income Tax Department and Enforcement Directorate on Friday at various sites in and around Kolkata, including the homes and offices of a party leader, candidate, and a proposer for her nomination.
“These central agencies never target the residences of BJP, Congress, and CPI(M) leaders. They consistently focus on the Trinamool Congress. I am confident that our leaders and workers will not yield to financial temptations. We always stand our ground. If I am a fighter, my mothers and sisters are my fellow fighters,” she asserted.
Additionally, she accused BJP leaders of profiting from exporting beef while simultaneously attempting to impose a ban on non-vegetarian foods in West Bengal.
Furthermore, she expressed concerns about potential manipulation of the polling process through microchips being installed in electronic voting machines (EVMs). “In the event of any malfunction of an EVM, do not permit the same machine to be reused after repairs. Demand a replacement instead,” she instructed her counting agents.
Point of View
It is essential to examine the broader implications of these accusations within the political landscape of West Bengal. The integrity of the electoral process is vital, and any suggestion of interference should be thoroughly investigated to maintain public trust.
NationPress
4 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mamata Banerjee's claim against the ECI?
Mamata Banerjee claims that the ECI has planned 'slow polling' and 'slow counting' to frustrate TMC agents during the upcoming elections.
Where did Mamata Banerjee make these statements?
She made these statements during a campaign rally in Uluberia, near Kolkata.
What concerns did she raise about EVMs?
She expressed concerns about potential manipulation via microchips in electronic voting machines (EVMs) and instructed her agents to demand replacements if any EVM malfunctions.
How does Mamata Banerjee view the actions of central agencies?
She criticized the central agencies for targeting TMC leaders while stating that they do not target leaders from BJP, Congress, or CPI(M).
What was her stance on non-vegetarian food bans?
She accused BJP leaders of hypocritically exporting beef while trying to impose bans on non-vegetarian foods in West Bengal.
