A fresh political controversy has surfaced in the run-up to the West Bengal Assembly election, with Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari levelling serious allegations against the TMC’s consultancy firm, Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC).
Adhikari has claimed that I-PAC is allegedly issuing “fake” press cards to TMC workers, enabling them to gain unrestricted access to polling stations and other sensitive areas.
Taking to social media on Friday, the BJP leader stated that these individuals are not professional journalists but are being disguised as members of the press to bypass restrictions. According to him, such access could allow them to enter administrative offices and polling booths without scrutiny.
Fear of electoral interference
The Nandigram and Bhabanipur candidate expressed concern that these “journalists in disguise” could misuse press privileges to interfere with the electoral process.
He alleged that the ruling party may deploy such individuals to influence voters, intimidate them, or even attempt electoral malpractice inside polling stations. Adhikari termed the alleged strategy an “old trick” and part of the Trinamool Congress’s “playbook”.
Appeal to Election Commission
Adhikari has urged the Election Commission of India to take immediate and stringent action. He proposed several measures to curb the alleged malpractice which include enhanced surveillance on individuals carrying newly issued press credentials, restricting polling station access to journalists from recognised media organisations and mandatory secondary verification of all press credentials.
He also called for coordinated action by district administrations and police authorities to ensure transparency and fairness during polling.
I-PAC under scanner amid ED action
The controversy comes at a time when I-PAC is already under scrutiny. Vinesh Chandel, one of its key figures, was recently arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a coal smuggling case and has been remanded to 10 days of custody.
Earlier, the ED had also summoned two senior executives—Pratik Jain and Rishi Raj Singh. Both have approached the Delhi High Court seeking permission to defer their appearance until after the conclusion of the ongoing elections.
Political temperature rises
With just days left for polling, the allegations have intensified the already charged political atmosphere in the state. The TMC has yet to issue a detailed response to the claims.
All eyes are now on the Election Commission and whether it initiates any probe or directives in response to the allegations, which could have significant implications for the conduct of the upcoming elections.
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