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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee gave a stern warning over alleged EVM irregularities after spending more than 3 hours in a strongroom in Kolkata. He said that if any attempt is made to tamper with the voting machines or the counting process, a life-or-death battle will be fought.

Mamata Banerjee visited the strongroom at Sakhawat Memorial School in south Kolkata, which is the distribution center for Bhawanipur assembly constituency, where EVMs and ballot papers are kept. His visit came amid allegations being made by the Trinamool Congress, including claims to a viral video showing activities around the strongroom.

As soon as she came out of the strongroom, Mamata Banerjee said that if anyone tries to steal the EVM machine or tamper with the counting, we will fight with our lives.” She further said that she will fight her whole life. Describing her visit, Mamata Banerjee said that she took this step after watching the CCTV footage.

“There is a secure room here for EVMs, but we found that manipulation is taking place at many places. When I saw it on TV, I thought I should come here,” he said.

He further said that the central security forces initially stopped him from entering, but allowed him to go after he claimed his rights as a candidate. “As per election rules, candidates and their representatives are allowed access to the sealed chamber,” he said.

Banerjee alleged bias in the process, saying her party representative has been arrested and unilateral action is being taken.

Ahead of the counting on May 4, a new political controversy broke out when TMC released a video alleging major lapses in the management of election material. TMC has accused BJP and Election Commission of collusion. TMC said in a post that the footage shows ballot boxes being opened in the absence of authorized representatives, a serious violation of rules.