Electricity is being cut, CCTV switched off! Before counting of votes, Mamata Banerjee gave a message to the workers at midnight, made big allegations against BJP

Kolkata: Just before the counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 begins, Trinamool Congress chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has appealed to her workers to remain alert. In the message issued at midnight, he said that to protect the public’s votes, we will have to keep a vigil throughout the night.

Mamta’s call to workers

Mamta Banerjee wrote on social media that she is getting news from many places where electricity is being deliberately cut. Such incidents have taken place in areas like Serampur in Hooghly, Krishnanagar in Nadia, Ausgram in Burdwan and Kshudiram Anushilan Kendra in Kolkata. Besides, CCTV cameras are being switched off and there is movement of suspicious vehicles near the strong room.

She told the workers, “Just as I am staying awake to keep an eye on every activity, you too should stay awake near the strong room to protect the votes. If you see any suspicious activity, surround it, immediately lodge a complaint and demand CCTV footage.” Mamta blamed BJP for these incidents.

Tense election environment

Votes will be counted in 77 centers for 293 seats in the state. This time there is already an atmosphere of tension regarding the counting of votes. Both the ruling Trinamool Congress and the main opposition BJP are accusing each other of vote manipulation.

There was a record 92.47 percent voting in the two phases of voting. However, the election was canceled due to serious irregularities in Falta assembly constituency of South 24 Parganas. There will be re-polling on May 21.

Strict security arrangements

The Election Commission has made heavy security arrangements to maintain the fairness of vote counting. 200 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) are deployed. The responsibility of security has been shared with the state police and armed police. CCTV cameras have been installed around the counting centers and every activity is being monitored.

Trinamool Congress is facing a strong challenge from BJP while aiming to come to power for the fourth consecutive time. Whereas CPI(M) and Congress are trying to improve their position. Smaller parties like AIMIM and others also hope to make an impact on some seats.