Security around electronic voting machine (EVM) strongrooms across Kolkata was intensified on Friday following a visit by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and protests staged by workers of the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC). The developments come amid heightened political tensions during the ongoing election cycle.

Banerjee visited a strongroom facility earlier in the day, where EVMs used in recent polling phases have been stored under round-the-clock surveillance. After inspecting the arrangements, she expressed concerns about the safety and integrity of the machines, prompting state authorities and election officials to further tighten security protocols at multiple storage sites.

In parallel, TMC supporters gathered near several strongroom locations in Kolkata and nearby districts, raising slogans and demanding greater transparency in the handling of EVMs. Party leaders alleged potential vulnerabilities in the storage process and called for stricter monitoring, including increased presence of party representatives and continuous vigilance.

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Election authorities, however, maintained that all EVMs are secured in accordance with established guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India. Officials emphasized that strongrooms are protected by multi-layered security, including central armed police forces, CCTV surveillance, and restricted access protocols, ensuring that the machines remain tamper-proof until counting day.

The situation has added to the charged political atmosphere in West Bengal, where polling has seen intense campaigning and close contests. Opposition parties have accused the ruling TMC of attempting to cast doubt on the electoral process, while the TMC has defended its actions as necessary to safeguard democratic integrity.

With counting day approaching, authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely to prevent any escalation. Security deployments are expected to remain heightened, particularly around sensitive locations, as political parties keep a close watch on the handling of EVMs ahead of the final results.

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