Security has been stepped up across Kolkata as counting of votes for the high-stakes West Bengal Assembly elections began on Monday morning.
The Election Commission have tightened vigil across the city, particularly at counting centres, with a comprehensive three-tier security system in place. Authorities have also introduced a QR code-based Photo Identity Card system through ECINET to prevent unauthorised access.
A heavy police deployment has been made outside the Sakhawat Memorial School counting centre in Bhabanipur—one of the most closely watched constituencies—where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contesting against BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.
Banerjee has urged party workers to remain vigilant, citing concerns over alleged suspicious activity near strong rooms.
Similar security arrangements have been put in place at Netaji Indoor Stadium and the office of the Chief Electoral Officer.
Tensions were visible at a counting centre where a verbal spat broke out between polling agents of the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The TMC alleged that its agents were not allowed to carry files and pens inside the counting centre, while BJP agents were permitted to do so.
“They are not allowing us to take files or pens inside, but BJP polling agents are allowed to take them. Rules should be the same for everyone. We are the people of Mamata Banerjee. There is no bigger identity than this,” a TMC polling agent told ANI.
The BJP, however, accused TMC polling agents of not carrying valid identity cards required for entry into the counting centre.
Counting began at 8 am across 77 centres covering 293 seats in the state. Postal ballots are being counted first, followed by votes recorded in EVMs.