Kolkata, West Bengal
State Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal has responded to a series of allegations made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), counting procedures, and an alleged incident at a counting centre. Addressing the media in Kolkata, Agarwal dismissed the claims, stating that no specific details or formal complaints have been provided to support them.
On the issue of EVM-related allegations, Agarwal said that it is not possible for authorities to respond without clear and verifiable information. He questioned the lack of specifics, asking what machines were being referred to, at which tables they were placed, and in which Assembly constituency the alleged irregularities occurred. According to him, without such details, any response would be speculative and not based on facts.
“We cannot answer if there is nothing specific,” he said, emphasizing the need for clarity and evidence when raising concerns about the electoral process. His remarks underline the procedural approach followed by election authorities, where any claim must be backed by identifiable data to be investigated.
Responding to allegations that Mamata Banerjee was manhandled at a counting centre, Agarwal firmly denied that any such incident took place. He stated that CCTV cameras at the counting locations were never switched off and that continuous monitoring was maintained throughout the process. He also mentioned that he personally spoke with the District Election Officer (DEO), who confirmed that no such event occurred.
“Nobody was beaten up. Such things never happen with any candidate,” Agarwal said, adding that if any such incident had taken place, it would have been followed by an official complaint and the filing of a First Information Report (FIR). He clarified that neither a complaint was submitted nor any FIR registered, reinforcing the position that no such घटना occurred.
Addressing broader allegations against the Election Commission, Agarwal explained the structure and roles within the election process. He clarified that the Chief Electoral Officer does not play a direct role in counting, which is conducted by the Returning Officer under the supervision of the District Election Officer. This, he said, ensures a clear chain of responsibility and accountability within the system.
On the matter of repolling in Falta, Agarwal confirmed that all necessary preparations have been made. He assured that strict measures will be in place to prevent any irregularities, referring to earlier concerns such as the alleged use of tape or perfume during voting. He indicated that authorities are taking extra precautions to ensure that the process remains transparent and credible.
When asked about Mamata Banerjee’s statement that she would not resign, Agarwal refrained from commenting on political matters. He stated that such issues fall outside the purview of the Election Commission and are governed by constitutional provisions.
“What do we have to do with it? She is the CM. There is a Governor here. The Constitution is supreme,” he said, emphasizing that decisions related to leadership and governance are determined within the constitutional framework, not by election authorities.
Agarwal’s statements come at a time when the West Bengal elections have drawn significant attention, with allegations and counter-allegations shaping public discourse. His response reflects the Election Commission’s position of relying on procedure, documentation, and institutional roles to address any concerns raised during the electoral process.
Observers note that the emphasis on transparency, documentation, and adherence to rules is crucial in maintaining trust in democratic institutions. Clear communication from officials, along with evidence-based responses, plays an important role in addressing doubts and ensuring confidence among voters and stakeholders.
As the situation continues to evolve, the focus remains on upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to fairness, accountability, and adherence to constitutional norms, ensuring that all actions are guided by established procedures.
Manoj Kumar Agarwal’s remarks reinforce the Election Commission’s stance that allegations must be supported by concrete evidence, while also highlighting the institutional mechanisms in place to ensure free and fair elections in West Bengal.
