Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders and workers staged a sit-in protest in Kolkata on May 31, 2026, alleging tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs) [1].
The demonstration comes as the state prepares for the June 2, 2026, vote count [3] and follows exit polls suggesting a significant shift in the political landscape of West Bengal.
Approximately 3,000 people gathered outside Subhas Chandra Bose Stadium for the protest [1]. The group, which included senior party spokespersons, described the event as a demand for a transparent recount before the official results are announced [2].
"We will not accept any tampered EVMs; the people of Bengal deserve a clean count," TMC spokesperson Arup Roy said [2].
The protest occurs against a backdrop of projections that favor the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to News24online, the BJP is projected to win between 150 and 175 seats in the 295-seat West Bengal Assembly [2]. Other projections from Today's Chanakya suggest the BJP is likely to win 160 seats [1].
Representatives from the BJP and the Election Commission responded to the allegations. BJP national spokesperson Anil Sharma said the election process is transparent and all procedures are being followed by the Election Commission [1].
S. K. Singh, an official with the Election Commission, said all technical checks on the EVMs have been completed and no irregularities have been reported [1].
“"We will not accept any tampered EVMs; the people of Bengal deserve a clean count."”
The TMC's decision to protest EVM integrity immediately before the official count suggests a strategic attempt to challenge the legitimacy of the results if the exit polls prove accurate. By centering the narrative on transparency and potential fraud, the party creates a framework to contest a potential loss of power in the West Bengal Assembly.
