The Election Commission of India has ordered re-polling at 15 polling stations in West Bengal following complaints of irregularities during the 2026 Assembly elections. The decision applies to polling stations in the Diamond Harbour and Magrahat West Assembly constituencies where alleged malfunctions in electronic voting machines and procedural complaints were reported.
According to the Commission, re-polling is being conducted at 11 polling stations in Magrahat West and four in Diamond Harbour. The votes cast at these booths on 29 April were annulled. The decision was taken based on reports submitted by the Returning Officer and election observers, in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
In Magrahat West, re-polling is being held at Uttar Yerpur FP School, Najra FP School, Deula FP School, Ghola Noypara Girls High Madrasa, and Bahirpuya Kurkuriya FP School, among others. In Diamond Harbour, re-polling is taking place in certain rooms of Bagda Junior High School, Chandra FP School, Haridevpur FP School, and Raynagar FP School.
Polling at all 15 booths commenced at 7 am and will continue until 6 pm. The Election Commission has undertaken measures to ensure voter awareness of the re-polling, including local announcements and written notifications to candidates.
Security arrangements have been strengthened at all polling stations to prevent any disruption or violence. Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, welcomed the Commission’s decision, stating that the step was necessary in light of developments in Magrahat West. He also said that re-polling should have been conducted at additional booths in Diamond Harbour and Falta.
The ruling Trinamool Congress had earlier raised concerns regarding the counting process, alleging that ballot boxes were opened in the absence of their representatives. State Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal rejected these allegations, stating that the entire process was being conducted transparently and in accordance with established rules.
The West Bengal Assembly elections were conducted in two phases on 23 April and 29 April. The Election Commission reported a voter turnout of 92.47 percent, which it stated is the highest recorded in the state’s electoral history. The results are scheduled to be declared on 4 May 2026.
To maintain order during the counting process, the administration has implemented restrictions on gatherings at seven locations designated as counting centres.
