Tensions flared in Kolkata, West Bengal, as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) protested outside the strongroom housing electronic voting machines (EVMs) following the recent Assembly elections. TMC leaders alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was colluding with the Election Commission of India to manipulate the electoral process, claiming that party workers were removed from their positions outside the strongroom before it was reopened. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh expressed concerns over procedural lapses, stating that they were not allowed entry while BJP representatives were present. The TMC described the situation as a 'murder of democracy in broad daylight' and accused the BJP of electoral fraud, citing CCTV footage as evidence of ballot boxes being opened without proper oversight. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee arrived at the counting center to investigate the claims, asserting that manipulation was occurring. Meanwhile, BJP leaders accused the TMC of fabricating a narrative, with BJP leader Tapas Roy questioning the presence of TMC supporters at the sensitive location. The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, rejected the allegations, confirming that all EVM strongrooms were secure and that procedures were being followed. The political climate remains tense as the Assembly elections are among the most closely contested in recent years, with exit polls indicating a tight race between the TMC and BJP.