Breaking: Kolkata Tensions Ease After Night Drama, Security Tightened at Strong Rooms Before Counting

The situation in Kolkata has largely stabilized after a night of intense political drama outside strong rooms ahead of vote counting. On Thursday evening, high-voltage protests erupted as leaders and workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) alleged irregularities in the handling of EVMs and postal ballots. The unrest peaked when Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited a strong room in Bhabanipur, drawing large crowds and triggering confrontations between TMC and BJP supporters. During the late-night developments, both parties mobilized workers in significant numbers, leading to tense moments and near clashes. BJP supporters accused Banerjee of acting outside constitutional norms by entering strong room premises, while TMC leaders insisted they were exercising their right to ensure transparency. The strong room, located at a school in Bhabanipur, became the focal point of the confrontation. The Election Commission of India clarified that the activity seen inside was part of a routine process related to postal ballots, which had been communicated in advance to all political parties. Officials reiterated that all EVMs remain sealed under strict security protocols and denied any wrongdoing or unauthorized access. Following several hours of tension, Mamata Banerjee left the premises late at night, after which the situation gradually returned to normal. Authorities have since increased security deployment around all strong rooms to prevent further unrest. Police and central forces are maintaining strict vigilance to ensure law and order is not disrupted again.