New Delhi: In a significant blow to the ruling Trinamool Congress, the Supreme Court of India (SC) on Saturday declined to intervene in the deployment of central government personnel at vote-counting centres in West Bengal, effectively upholding the Election Commission’s decision.
The TMC had challenged the move by the Election Commission of India after failing to secure relief from the Calcutta High Court. However, the apex court found no merit in the plea, observing that the distinction between central and state government staff in election duties was not substantial.
कलकत्ता हाईकोर्ट के बाद सुप्रीम कोर्ट से भी TMC को झटका #supreme court | breaking news pic.twitter.com/5X5KyLG7ZS
— News18 India (@News18India) May 2, 2026
Court Backs EC’s Discretion
During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the TMC, argued that the EC’s reliance on central personnel raised concerns about bias and mistrust toward the state machinery.
The bench, however, dismissed the contention. Justice Joymalya Bagchi noted that the deployment falls within the Election Commission’s domain and does not violate any regulations. He emphasized that counting agents from political parties would remain present, ensuring transparency in the process.
The court further observed that selecting officials from a particular pool—central or state—cannot be deemed arbitrary or illegal.
🚨 BIG!
Supreme Court dismisses TMC’s plea on counting staff in Bengal.
TMC objected to only Central govt staff being used. Kapil Sibal argued, “You cannot choose from one pool only.”
Court’s reply: “Why not?” pic.twitter.com/jSCowtcbGm
— The Analyzer (News Updates🗞️) (@Indian_Analyzer) May 2, 2026
Poll Timeline and Stakes
West Bengal went to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4. The outcome is expected to determine the political direction of the state in what has already become a high-voltage contest.
EVM Tensions Escalate on Ground
The legal battle comes amid rising tensions over alleged EVM irregularities. On April 30, dramatic scenes unfolded in Kolkata after TMC leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja rushed to a strong room facility at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, alleging suspicious activity around stored voting machines.
The situation quickly spiralled as supporters of both the TMC and BJP gathered at the site, leading to heated confrontations with each side accusing the other of attempting to tamper with EVMs.
Later, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally visited another strong room at Sakhawat Memorial Government Girls’ High School in Bhabanipur, claiming attempts were being made to replace voting machines. She stationed party workers outside strong rooms overnight, vowing strict vigilance until counting day.
High Alert Before Counting Day
With political temperatures soaring and allegations flying thick and fast, security around strong rooms has been tightened across the state. The focus now shifts to May 4, when counting will begin under intense scrutiny, both on the ground and in the courts of public opinion.
