Decision to set up booths in 69 housing complexes across seven districts sparks political reaction in West Bengal
According to sources, BJP leaders Rahul Sinha and Shishir Bajoria had recently approached the Commission seeking the setting up of polling booths inside large residential complexes where a substantial number of voters reside. Acting on this request, the Election Commission on Friday announced that polling stations would be established inside residential complexes having more than 300 registered voters, citing logistical necessity and voter convenience.
In an official announcement, the Commission said it had decided to set up polling booths in a total of 69 multi-storey residential complexes spread across seven districts, including Kolkata. As per the approved list, polling centres will be established in two complexes in South Kolkata, eight in North Kolkata, 25 in South 24 Parganas, 22 in North 24 Parganas, four in Howrah, three in East Burdwan, and five in Hooghly.
The Commission later issued a notification explaining that the number of voters residing in these complexes is particularly high and that, without dedicated polling centres within the premises, it would be difficult to conduct elections smoothly. The move, it said, is aimed at improving accessibility and ensuring orderly polling. With booths located inside their residential complexes, voters will no longer be required to travel long distances and will be able to cast their votes conveniently within their own neighbourhoods.
The Commission further clarified that the decision was taken to enhance voter convenience and potentially increase voter turnout. While 69 residential complexes have been identified at present, officials indicated that the number could increase marginally. The finalised list will be forwarded to the Election Commission of India for record and further action. It was also stated that necessary infrastructure and security arrangements would be put in place in coordination with the respective district administrations and the management authorities of the residential complexes.
The decision has drawn strong criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress. Party leaders alleged that the move demonstrated political bias on the part of the Election Commission, claiming that it was acting in line with the BJP’s interests. Senior TMC leaders said the development once again raised questions about the Commission’s neutrality, with some remarking that the office of the Chief Electoral Officer might as well function from the BJP’s party headquarters.
It is noteworthy that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had earlier written to the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Gyanesh Kumar, formally objecting to the proposal to set up polling booths inside residential complexes. Despite her protest, the Election Commission proceeded with the plan, maintaining that the decision was driven by administrative requirements and the goal of facilitating a smoother and more accessible voting process for residents.