Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:10pm on 01 May 2026,Friday India
Kolkata Police imposed prohibitory orders banning public gatherings across seven vote-counting locations following overnight tensions linked to alleged irregularities. The Trinamool Congress raised concerns over “suspicious activities” at two counting centres, sparking protests and political confrontation. However, the Chief Electoral Officer dismissed the claims, clarifying that routine procedures like postal ballot segregation—conducted under supervision, sometimes using torchlight—were misinterpreted. Authorities stated that strong rooms storing Electronic Voting Machines remain sealed and secure. After official clarification, protesting leaders withdrew. The restrictions aim to prevent unrest and ensure smooth, transparent counting of votes in the high-stakes West Bengal assembly elections. (PC: NDTV)