Kolkata, May 1 (). Controversy has once again deepened in the state politics regarding the visit to EVM strong room in Bhawanipur. The opposition has raised questions on this visit of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Leader of Opposition in the State Assembly and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari has made many serious comments terming it as ‘drama’.
Speaking to reporters, Suvendu Adhikari said, “It is not objectionable to visit the strong room as a candidate, but the manner in which it was done raises questions. What was the justification for staying there for four hours and the Chief Minister’s behavior during this period was not normal. Such activities create unnecessary suspicion when the election process is already going on as per the laid down rules.”
Raising questions about the timing of the Chief Minister’s visit and her behaviour, the officer said, “Mamata Banerjee leaving home early in the morning on the election day is different from her normal behaviour. Banerjee has contested MP and MLA elections many times, but this time a change in her behavior is clearly visible. The public and the media should consider the reason behind this change.”
Regarding the apprehensions of EVM tampering, he said, “The election system is completely secure and there is no scope for any tampering in it. EVMs have a unique number and the VVPAT system is also linked to it, which ensures transparency. Such allegations are being made only to spread confusion.”
Suvendu Adhikari also alleged, “Some leaders of the opposition parties were planning agitation and protests, but it completely failed. This clearly shows that the public support is not with her. Mamata Banerjee is losing her political ground and is taking such steps due to the fear of defeat in the upcoming elections.”
He also gave his reaction on the issue of re-polling. “The decision to re-poll in Magrahat West is right, but the same should be done at more booths in the Diamond Harbor area. Re-polling at just four booths is not enough and should be implemented on a larger scale,” he said.
Along with this, he expressed confidence in the functioning of the Election Commission. “The Election Commission takes decisions based on various processes such as CCTV footage, observers’ reports and reports of presiding officers,” he said. He clarified that his party respects the Election Commission and does not believe in the politics of questioning institutions.
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