The Election Commission of India has ordered a re-poll in 15 polling stations across South 24 Parganas in West Bengal. The move puts Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour back under focus during the 2026 Assembly elections.
The decision follows scrutiny of complaints from the second phase of polling held on April 29. Consequently, fresh voting will take place on May 2, 2026, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Commission has also declared the earlier polling void under Section 58(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
WHAT TRIGGERED THE ACTION
The Election Commission acted after reports flagged possible interference with Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) in multiple booths. In several cases, officials noted EVM buttons allegedly covered with tape, ink, or adhesive material.
As a result, the Commission reviewed inputs from Returning Officers and observers. It then concluded that irregularities affected the fairness of voting in select booths. Therefore, it ordered fresh polling instead of accepting the earlier results.
BOOTHS WHERE VOTING WILL BE HELD AGAIN
In Magrahat Paschim, re-polling will take place at Uttar Yearpur FP School Room 2 (Booth 46). It will also take place at Najra FP School Rooms 1 and 2 (Booths 126 and 127). Additionally, voting will be held at Deula FP School Room 1 (Booth 128) and Ghola Noyapara Girls’ High Madrasha Room 2 (Booth 142).
Moreover, Ektara Malaya FP School Rooms 1 and 2 (Booths 214 and 215) will see fresh voting. Ektara Malaya Dhora FP School Room 1 (Booth 216) is also included. Finally, Bahirpuya Kurkuriya FP School Rooms 1, 2 and 3 (Booths 230, 231 and 232) will vote again.
In Diamond Harbour, voting will take place at Bagda Junior High School (Booth 117). It will also be held at Chanda FP School Room 2 (Booth 179), Haridevpur FP School (Booth 194), and Roynagar FP School Room 2 (Booth 243).
HIGH TURNOUT UNDER SCRUTINY
Magrahat Paschim recorded a voter turnout of around 92.19 per cent. This reflects strong participation during the polling phase.
Similarly, West Bengal saw high turnout across phases. However, this has now increased scrutiny of polling-day conduct. In particular, attention has shifted to booths where complaints emerged after voting.
SECURITY AND VOTER RULES
Meanwhile, authorities have strengthened security at all repolling booths. They aim to ensure peaceful voting.
Voters must carry valid ID documents. These include EPIC cards, Aadhaar, passport, or driving licence.
In addition, the Election Commission has reiterated voting procedures. These include EVM verification and VVPAT checks. This allows voters to confirm their choice before the final recording.
RESULTS ON MAY 4
The West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 results will be declared on May 4. Counting will take place under strict security arrangements.
Early trends are expected soon after counting begins. Overall, the repolling decision highlights the Commission’s push to maintain trust in the electoral process amid heightened scrutiny.
