Re-voting Ordered in Bengal Amidst Rising Political Tensions

As political tensions escalate in Bengal, the Election Commission has ordered a re-vote at 15 polling stations on May 2, just before the counting on May 4. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised concerns about potential irregularities at counting centers, while officials assure strict security measures are in place. With restrictions on gatherings in Kolkata and accusations flying between political parties, the atmosphere remains charged. This article delves into the details of the re-vote and the surrounding political climate.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 1, 2026, 19:01 IST

Re-voting Scheduled for May 2

In light of the escalating conflict between the BJP and TMC in Bengal, the Election Commission has mandated a re-vote at 15 polling stations on May 2. This decision comes just ahead of the counting scheduled for May 4, intensifying the political atmosphere in the state. Manoj Agarwal, the Chief Electoral Officer, assured that there would be no room for discrepancies at the counting centers, emphasizing that stringent security measures are in place.

Details of the Re-vote

The Election Commission will conduct the re-voting at a total of 15 polling booths in Diamond Harbour and Magrahat West. This includes 11 booths in Magrahat West and 4 in Diamond Harbour, where the previous voting has been annulled. Voting will take place from 7 AM to 6 PM, and officials have been instructed to finalize preparations and disseminate information to the public promptly.

Mamata Banerjee's Security Allegations

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee spent several hours at the counting center in her Bhawanipur constituency on Thursday night, alleging potential irregularities. However, election officials refuted these claims, stating that the strong room is under 24-hour CCTV surveillance. In response to the rising tensions, Kolkata police have enforced Section 163 around the counting center in Bhawanipur and outside the Shakhawat Memorial School, where the EVMs are stored.

Restrictions and Tensions in Kolkata

The police have prohibited gatherings at seven locations in Kolkata where EVM strong rooms are established. This decision was made following a viral video that suggested suspicious activities at a center in North Kolkata. Ahead of the results announcement on May 4, security measures have been heightened across the city, with political parties accusing each other of misconduct.