EC Orders Rare Full Repoll In Falta Seat After Widespread Election Irregularities

The repoll order is unprecedented in West Bengal, as it covers an entire constituency rather than select booths. Falta, located in South 24 Parganas district, witnessed widespread irregularities that compromised the integrity of the election, prompting the EC to scrap the earlier vote.

Why Repolling Was Ordered

Election observers reported tampering of EVMs, including instances where party symbols were obscured with tape, preventing voters from exercising their choice. At least 60 booths were directly affected, accounting for nearly 54,000 voters. The EC concluded that the scale of malpractice amounted to “subversion of the democratic process.” 

Security And Logistics

The EC has directed deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and state police to ensure peaceful voting. Live webcasting will be conducted from sensitive booths, and additional observers will monitor the process. Voting will be held between 7 am and 6 pm on May 21, with counting scheduled for May 24. 

Political Context

Falta is a politically sensitive seat under the Diamond Harbour subdivision, where allegations of intimidation by ruling party workers were reported. The repoll is expected to intensify the contest between the Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party, with both sides closely monitoring the outcome. 

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠EC orders repoll in all 285 polling stations of Falta constituency

•⁠  ⁠Repolling scheduled for May 21, 2026; counting on May 24

•⁠  ⁠Widespread EVM tampering and booth capturing reported on April 29

•⁠  ⁠CAPF deployment, live webcasting, and strict monitoring planned

•⁠  ⁠Rare move: entire constituency repoll ordered to safeguard electoral integrity

Sources: The Times of India, Telegraph India, Times Now, Zee News, Indiablooms