Strongroom Security Row: TMC Raises Concerns, Election Commission Denies Irregularities

MP, May 1, 2026, Kolkata: Amid escalating allegations over strongroom security, police assured installation of a foolproof CCTV system with live access for party representatives.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) rejected claims of irregularities, asserting that all procedures were followed and strongrooms remain secure.

State Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal said no formal complaint had been received and denied any breach, adding that monitoring will continue till counting.

TMC leaders staged protests alleging suspicious activity and CCTV issues, while BJP supporters countered, leading to tension outside counting centres.

The TMC claimed video evidence of irregularities, while officials maintained transparency and denied wrongdoing ahead of counting.

Later, in a press conference, the CEO, in the presence of DEO North Smita Pandey, said that the segregation of postal ballots got underway from 4 pm on Thursday at the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra strongroom, as scheduled earlier by poll authorities.

“The segregated ballots are being processed by Assistant Returning Officers for transfer to the nodal clearing house in Barasat, and the exercise will take more time,” he added.

In a bid to ensure transparency, all general observers assigned to North Kolkata were asked to remain present during the exercise, stated the CEO.

“Returning officers were directed to inform all contesting candidates or their polling agents in advance, allowing them to come when the process started at 4 pm,” he said.