West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal on Tuesday rejected allegations by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of EVM manipulation and physical assault during the assembly election vote counting, stating there was no evidence or formal complaint to substantiate the claims. Agarwal emphasized that without specific details—such as the location, machines, or assembly segments involved—such allegations could not be investigated.

He confirmed that CCTV cameras at counting centers remained operational throughout the process and that no reports of violence were recorded by the District Election Officers. 'CCTV camera was never off. I also spoke with the DEO; nobody was beaten up,' Agarwal said, adding that no FIR or complaint had been filed by Banerjee or her team.

Agarwal clarified that the Chief Electoral Officer has no role in the vote counting process, which is managed by Returning Officers under the guidance of District Election Officers. He dismissed Banerjee's criticism of the Election Commission, stating the CEO's office operates within statutory boundaries and is not involved in on-ground counting operations.

Regarding repolling in Falta, Agarwal confirmed all preparations were in place and that measures had been taken to prevent any irregularities, including the misuse of tape or perfume on EVMs. He reiterated that the electoral process remained secure and transparent.

The Election Commission will monitor the repolling process closely, with officials deployed to ensure compliance with protocols. The Governor is expected to invite the BJP to form the new state government following its majority win in the 294-member Assembly.