Alleging possible tampering of electronic voting machines (EVMs), West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday directed party workers to remain vigilant at polling booths until the conclusion of voting.

Addressing a rally at Tentulia High School grounds in North 24 Parganas ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo warned party cadres against leaving booths unattended.

“No one is to leave the booth until the voting ends. They will try to tamper with EVMs. Remember, chips can be inserted to steal votes. Outsiders are being brought in,” she said.

Despite arriving nearly an hour behind schedule, Banerjee was welcomed by a large crowd that had gathered at the venue since early morning.

She shared the stage with party candidates Bina Mandal (Swarupnagar), Narayan Goswami (Ashoknagar), and Rituparna Adhya (Bongaon South), raising their hands as she appealed to voters for support.

‘Vote for stability and welfare’

Framing the election as a broader mandate, Mamata urged voters to look beyond individual candidates. “This vote is not just about forming a government; it is about protecting people’s rights,” she said. Positioning herself as the central face of the contest, she added, “If you want the continuation of welfare schemes and stability, then your vote is for me.”

Allegations over voter list revision

Mamata also launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list.

She alleged that the exclusion of nearly 90 lakh names was a “calculated move” that could undermine democratic participation and deprive eligible citizens of their rights and benefits.
Focus on Welfare Schemes.

Highlighting her government’s performance, the Chief Minister pointed to the implementation of 105 welfare schemes across the state. She assured that flagship initiatives such as Lakshmir Bhandar and Yuvashree would continue, while also promising housing for all and expanded access to piped drinking water.

Confidence in party cadres

Reiterating her faith in party workers, Mamata emphasised the importance of discipline and vigilance on polling day. She expressed confidence that her party would be able to counter any challenges and ensure a fair electoral process through coordinated efforts at the grassroots level.

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