KOLKATA — On Oct. 6, 2026, Congress representatives in West Bengal’s Nandigram constituency reported alleged electronic voting‑machine (EVM) malfunctions and instances of voter intimidation as the by‑poll proceeds. The claims emerged amid a broader series of by‑elections across the state, including contests in Rejinagar, Madurantakam, Dharapuram, Thattanchavady and Nagaon.
Allegations of Technical Faults
According to live updates published by The Hindu, Congress leaders said several EVM units displayed error messages and failed to register votes in certain polling stations. The party’s state spokesperson described the situation as “a serious breach of the electoral process” and urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to suspend the count pending a technical audit.
Reports of Voter Intimidation
The same live feed noted complaints from local party workers that poll officials and unidentified individuals allegedly threatened voters who attempted to cast ballots for opposition candidates. The Congress delegation filed a written complaint with the district election officer, citing specific polling booths where intimidation was observed.
Detention of AJUP Chief in Murshidabad
Separately, The Times of India reported that Humayun Kabir, chief of the All India Janata United Party (AJUP), was detained by police in Murshidabad after casting his vote. Kabir’s detention occurred shortly after the polling closed, and he was released on bail the same day. The report did not specify the grounds for his arrest.
Election Commission Response
The Election Commission has not issued a formal statement on the Nandigram allegations as of the time of writing. An ECI spokesperson, speaking to reporters, said the commission monitors all polling stations and will investigate any credible complaints. No FIR related to the alleged EVM issues or intimidation has been publicly recorded.
Context of the Byelection
The Nandigram seat became vacant after the resignation of the sitting MLA in March 2026. The by‑poll is viewed as a litmus test for the ruling party’s standing ahead of the 2027 state assembly elections. Voter turnout in the constituency, as per the preliminary figures released by the district election office, stood at 68.4 percent, marginally higher than the average turnout in the earlier by‑polls held in the state.
Political Reactions
State Congress leaders called for a re‑poll in the affected booths, arguing that the alleged technical glitches could alter the outcome. The ruling party’s state unit dismissed the allegations as “political theatrics” and urged voters to accept the results. No other party has publicly commented on the matter.
Legal and Administrative Steps
Under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, any party may file an election petition in the High Court within 45 days of the result declaration if it believes the election was compromised. Congress officials indicated they are preparing such a petition, pending a detailed review of the polling data.
