Fresh voting is underway in parts of South 24 Parganas in West Bengal after complaints of irregularities during the previous phase prompted intervention by the Election Commission of India, setting off a renewed political confrontation between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the All India Trinamool Congress. The poll panel ordered repolling in 15 booths, with the majority located in Magrahat Paschim and the rest in the Diamond Harbour segment, where voting is being conducted under tight security from morning till evening.

The decision followed reports from ground officials flagging issues linked to electronic voting machines, including claims of malfunction and obstruction. Authorities indicated that such complaints triggered a review, and repolling was approved to ensure the integrity of the process. The situation has added to an already tense political atmosphere, with both major parties stepping up their accusations ahead of counting day.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari supported the move but argued that the scope of repolling should have been wider, particularly in other areas of Diamond Harbour and Falta. The BJP has maintained that voters in some pockets faced difficulties during the earlier phase and has demanded broader corrective action.

In contrast, the Trinamool Congress rejected the allegations and accused the BJP of attempting to undermine confidence in the electoral system. Party leaders insisted that the process is being conducted fairly and under strict monitoring.

The fresh round of voting comes after a high turnout was recorded in the earlier phase, reflecting strong participation despite the controversy. With counting scheduled for May 4, attention is now focused on whether the disputes over polling will influence the final outcome in one of the most closely watched electoral contests in the state.