TMC Candidate Raises Concerns Over Security Protocols in West Bengal Elections

In a recent statement, TMC candidate Shashi Panja expressed serious concerns regarding the security protocols in place for the West Bengal elections. She highlighted the ignorance of security personnel about regulations allowing candidates to inspect strongrooms. Panja also pointed out the absence of CCTV cameras and raised alarms about unauthorized access to ballot boxes. Her claims reflect broader issues of election security, with both TMC and BJP alleging irregularities. This situation has led to protests and official complaints, emphasizing the need for stringent security measures as the election process unfolds.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 17:18 IST

TMC Leader's Claims on Security Personnel Ignorance

Shashi Panja, a leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and candidate from Shyampukur, asserted on Saturday that security personnel deployed in West Bengal are "unaware of the regulations" and are attempting to "humiliate us daily." She explained that, according to the rules, candidates are permitted to inspect the strongroom, yet she was temporarily barred from entering.

During her visit to the strongroom at Netaji Indoor Stadium, Panja reported that security officials initially denied her entry, stating that individuals already inside must exit first. It was only after receiving clarification from the police that she was allowed to enter.

Concerns Over CCTV and Unauthorized Access

Panja informed a news agency that the security personnel stationed outside were also unaware that candidates could enter. They told her that she could only go in after one of the two individuals inside came out. Following police intervention, they were informed that candidates have the right to enter, highlighting a lack of knowledge among the security staff, which she described as a daily source of humiliation.

She also raised concerns about the absence of CCTV cameras in the strongroom, claiming that officials assured her that cameras would be installed soon.

Issues with Ballot Boxes and Strongroom Security

Panja noted that visiting the strongroom seemed pointless since the ballot boxes related to seven assembly seats in North Kolkata had already arrived at 4 AM, with no representatives from any political party present. These boxes were placed in a room lacking CCTV surveillance. Upon inquiry, she was told that cameras would be installed shortly. She claimed to have waited for a considerable time in the strongroom but did not observe any security measures.

Earlier that morning, the TMC had lodged an official complaint against the returning officer of another strongroom, the Khudiram Anushilan Center.

Allegations of Unauthorized Sorting of Ballots

The AITC has alleged that there was unauthorized sorting of postal ballots. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and AITC have accused the strongroom of security irregularities, claiming it was opened without permission.

The Trinamool Congress had staged a protest at the center, alleging unauthorized access to the strongroom.