The Election Commission of India announced a repoll for the Falta Assembly seat on May 2, 2026. This decision comes after severe allegations of electoral misconduct and local protests demanding safety and accountability.
The repoll will occur across all 285 polling stations in the constituency. It is scheduled for May 21, 2026, from 7 am to 6 pm. Votes from this repoll will be counted on May 24, 2026.
Officials cited severe electoral offences reported during the initial polling on April 29, 2026. Massive protests erupted in Falta, with locals alleging threats from Trinamool Congress (TMC) cadre.
- A local woman stated, “TMC’s Israfil Chowkidar has threatened us that if these people win, they will burn our houses and carry out bloodshed.”
- Another protester emphasized, “We want him to be arrested. We need safety for women.”
- At least 77 complaints related to EVM tampering were filed with the Election Commission during the second phase of the elections.
The two-phase assembly polls in West Bengal took place on April 23 and April 29, 2026. The situation in Falta has drawn widespread attention as residents demand accountability and a fair electoral process.
The Election Commission stated, “On consideration of severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during the polling in a large number of polling stations on April 29, we direct that a fresh poll shall be conducted.” This underscores the gravity of the allegations and the urgency for corrective measures.
