Suvendu Adhikari Alleges Fake Voting Tactics Ahead of West Bengal Elections
Serious Allegations Before Voting
On the eve of the second phase of voting in West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari has made alarming accusations. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from the Bhawanipur constituency claimed that leaders from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have procured artificial fingers to facilitate fraudulent voting. Adhikari even displayed images of these fingers, which he stated are available on e-commerce platforms. He alleged that TMC leaders have purchased at least 700 fake fingers for the purpose of rigging votes in Bhawanipur.
Adhikari's Political Stand
Currently serving as the Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari is contesting against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from the Bhawanipur seat. Speaking to the media, he expressed concerns about potential manipulation of the election process but vowed to prevent such actions. To substantiate his claims, he showcased a photo of one of the fake fingers from his phone.
Specific Accusations Against TMC
Adhikari specifically named TMC councilor Debolina Biswas, alleging that she purchased 750 fake fingers. He explained, 'These artificial fingers will be used by individuals who will place them over their real fingers to cast their votes, get inked, and then remove the fake finger to return and vote again with another one.'
Concerns Over Voter Lists
He further mentioned that there are 3,810 voter slips distributed by booth-level officials that have not been returned. Adhikari claimed that a list of such voters has been compiled and will be monitored closely. He also provided a sample of the fake fingers to election commission officials. In response, TMC leader Arup Chakraborty dismissed Adhikari's allegations as baseless.
TMC's Response
Chakraborty stated, 'Is it even possible in a democracy? Such things are neither feasible nor practiced by anyone. These accusations are false and not worthy of a response.'