The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has initiated a voter list verification campaign in West Bengal, alleging that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is manipulating electoral rolls by adding fake voters from outside the state.
TMC’s Allegations
TMC leaders claim that the BJP is illegally influencing voter registration, particularly in border districts and urban areas. They argue that a large number of non-residents have been added to the voter list to impact upcoming elections. Additionally, they have criticized the Election Commission (EC) for inaction, accusing it of failing to address the alleged irregularities.
Details of the Verification Campaign
- TMC volunteers are conducting house-to-house verification to confirm voter identities and identify discrepancies.
- The party has urged local residents to report any unauthorized additions to the voter list.
- A public awareness initiative has been launched to highlight the issue and encourage vigilance among voters.
BJP’s Response
The BJP has denied the allegations, labeling them as an attempt by TMC to mislead the public. Party leaders claim that TMC is using this issue to create political tension and divert attention from its own governance failures.
Election Commission’s Role
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has stated that it will investigate any reported discrepancies and ensure that the voter registration process remains transparent and fair.
Political Implications
The dispute is likely to heighten tensions between TMC and BJP ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
This issue could influence local municipal elections, as TMC seeks to strengthen its support base.
Opposition parties, including Congress and the Left Front, have also demanded an impartial review of the voter list.
The voter verification drive underscores the intense political rivalry in West Bengal, where elections are frequently accompanied by controversies and allegations of electoral fraud.