Kolkata

Repolling in two Assembly constituencies of West Bengal witnessed a strong voter response on Saturday, with a combined turnout of 86.9 per cent recorded till 5 PM. The Diamond Harbour seat registered 87.6 per cent polling, while Magrahat Paschim reported 86.11 per cent participation.

Despite intermittent rainfall, voters were seen lining up outside polling booths, particularly in Magrahat Paschim in South 24 Parganas district, as the repoll process continued under tight security arrangements.

The repoll was conducted in 15 booths across the two constituencies following directions from the Election Commission of India after complaints of alleged tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs) during the second phase of polling held on April 29.

To ensure transparency and smooth conduct of the counting process, the Commission has deployed additional counting observers and police observers. These officials are tasked with overseeing security arrangements and maintaining a peaceful and intimidation-free environment during the counting of votes.

The appointments have been made under provisions of Article 324 of the Constitution and Section 20B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, placing the observers under the direct supervision of the Election Commission.

Additional counting observers have been assigned to constituencies with multiple counting halls, while police observers will monitor law and order around counting centres. However, police officials will not be permitted inside counting halls on the day of counting.

Strict protocols have also been laid down for access to counting centres. Entry will be regulated through QR code-based photo identity cards issued via the ECINet system, and only authorised personnel will be allowed inside. Mobile phones will be prohibited within counting halls, except for use by designated officials such as the returning officer and counting observer.

Counting supervisors will prepare Form 17C-II, documenting results from control units in the presence of counting agents, while micro-observers will independently record data for cross-verification.

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The repoll follows a high voter turnout of 92.67 per cent recorded during the final phase of polling on April 29. Counting of votes for the Assembly elections is scheduled for May 4.