Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged Trinamool Congress workers to remain vigilant against potential “EVM capture” during her rallies on Sunday. She expressed concerns over reports of power cuts affecting Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) stored in strongrooms following the first phase of the assembly elections in the state.
“Look at the Election Commission! It is your responsibility to ensure that EVMs are not compromised. Why is there so much load-shedding? This is a clear indication of malicious intent. I urge you not to fall into their trap,” Banerjee stated at her campaign events in Bhowanipore, her constituency.
Recalling the 2021 assembly elections, Banerjee noted that she had a lead of 4,000 votes in Nandigram before a power outage occurred at the counting center. After power was restored, her lead diminished, and she ultimately lost to BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari by a margin of less than 2,000 votes. She has since challenged the election results in the Calcutta High Court, where the matter remains unresolved.
“Everyone must cast their vote. They will attempt to tamper with EVMs. If a machine malfunctions, return to vote again. Do not cast your vote on any machine that has previously failed. Every EVM must be thoroughly inspected. Central forces are likely to capture EVMs; they are under the influence of the Election Commission. Let them proceed as they wish. Women should safeguard EVMs from the polling day until the counts are finalized,” Banerjee reiterated.
In her remarks, she also took aim at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, stating, “The Home Minister uses foul language and is frightened. He believes he can win by instilling fear. Remember, we know how to fight back if you attempt to spread fear.”
