Calcutta HC Upholds EC Order Allowing Central Govt Staff for Vote Counting in West Bengal Polls

The post poll atmosphere in West Bengal turned sharply tense as courtroom clarity and ground level confrontation unfolded almost at the same time, adding fresh intensity ahead of counting on May 4 .

In a key ruling, the Calcutta High Court dismissed a petition filed by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) challenging the Election Commission of India directive to deploy central government and PSU employees for vote counting in the state Assembly elections. The petition had questioned the neutrality and legality of the arrangement.

The court, however, upheld the EC’s position, stating that the appointment of counting supervisors and assistants lies within its constitutional discretion . It observed that there was no illegality in involving central government or PSU staff and rejected the claim that such personnel could be influenced in the process. The court also noted that multiple layers of oversight, including observers and counting agents of political parties, would ensure transparency.

While the legal front went in favour of the EC, tensions escalated on the ground in Kolkata at the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra , a key counting centre. TMC candidates including Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja staged a sit in protest outside the EVM strongroom area, alleging irregularities and questioning CCTV monitored activity inside the premises.

The situation turned heated when BJP candidates reached the spot and confronted police over the presence of protesters near a sensitive zone. Supporters of both sides raised slogans, creating a charged atmosphere amid heavy rain.

The Election Commission strongly rejected allegations of tampering, clarifying that all EVM strongrooms were securely sealed in the presence of candidates and observers after polling. It said that what was seen on CCTV was routine segregation of postal ballots carried out as per procedure in a designated area.

Authorities also confirmed that political parties had been informed in advance and that strict security protocols were in place. After assurances of enhanced monitoring and improved CCTV visibility, the protesting leaders eventually withdrew.

With the court backing the EC and on ground allegations being firmly denied, West Bengal remains politically charged as counting day approaches.