#JUSTIN: EC Says Repolling in Select West Bengal Booths Possible on May 2 or 3
EC signals repolling in some Bengal booths before results day.
The Election Commission of India has said that a final decision on repolling in certain booths in West Bengal is still under review, even as speculation grows about possible fresh voting on May 2 ahead of the May 4 counting day.
The poll body is examining complaints of alleged irregularities, including EVM-related issues, reported during the second phase of voting held on April 29. Officials confirmed that requests for repolling have been received from multiple constituencies, particularly in South 24 Parganas district, where several booths came under scrutiny.
According to election authorities, a total of 77 complaints have been flagged, with political parties alleging issues such as tampering, malfunction, and procedural violations. The Commission has initiated a verification process and will decide on a case-by-case basis whether repolling is warranted.
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Importantly, the Election Commission has not yet confirmed any blanket repoll schedule. Officials indicated that repolling, if approved, would be conducted only in booths where violations are conclusively established. Earlier, the Chief Electoral Officer had suggested that fresh voting could be held before May 2 if required, aligning with election timelines.
The development comes in a politically sensitive environment, with parties trading allegations over electoral malpractice. The Commission has reiterated that strict action will be taken wherever irregularities are proven, while also maintaining that the overall polling process has largely been peaceful.
With counting scheduled for May 4, authorities are working to ensure that any pending decisions on repolling are resolved swiftly. The outcome will be crucial in maintaining the credibility of the electoral process, particularly in closely contested constituencies across the state.
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