Exit Poll Pressure Mounts as Court Rejects TMC Pleas; Mamata Alleges Manipulation
With just days remaining for the declaration of results of the West Bengal Assembly elections, the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has suffered a significant legal setback. The Calcutta High Court on Friday dismissed two petitions filed by the party regarding counting arrangements, stating that there was “no merit” in the claims and that the alleged prejudice lacked supporting evidence.
The dismissed petitions included objections to the deployment of central government employees as counting supervisors and concerns over the shifting of a counting centre. The court’s decision comes at a crucial time, just ahead of the announcement of election results.
Earlier, Mamata Banerjee staged a late-night protest at an EVM strongroom in Bhabanipur, her constituency, where she is contesting against Suvendu Adhikari. She alleged that her party workers had reported irregularities and potential manipulation in the handling of electronic voting machines.
“If there is any plan to tamper with the counting process, it will not be tolerated,” Banerjee said while addressing the media. Her remarks intensified the political tension in the state.
In response, BJP leaders accused the TMC of attempting to create unrest at a sensitive location and rejected the allegations, stating that the party would not allow any unfair practices.
Adding to the pressure, several exit polls have predicted a tight contest in the state, with some suggesting that the TMC may struggle to retain power despite an aggressive campaign. However, Banerjee dismissed these projections, claiming they are aimed at demoralising party workers.
The results of the West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4, with political stakes at an all-time high.
