EC Cancels Falta Election, Orders Repoll Amid Alleged EVM Tampering

### Claim 1 – EC scrapped Falta election because of electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process Evidence: The Election Commission announced a fresh poll for all 285 booths in Falta, explicitly naming “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process” as the reason. Multiple news outlets reported the same statement, confirming the EC’s official rationale. Verdict: True. Analysis: The EC’s own press release and consistent coverage across independent media leave no doubt that the poll was countermanded for the stated offences. No contradictory reports exist.

### Claim 2 – 60 of 285 polling stations (≈21%) had EVMs tampered with with black masking tape and ink on buttons Evidence: Reports mention BJP allegations that party symbols on EVMs were covered with tape at several booths, and the EC noted tampering in “as many as 60 polling stations.” However, the sources do not specify the use of black masking tape and ink, nor do they provide a verifiable count linking the 60 stations to that exact method. Verdict: Unverifiable. Analysis: While the EC confirmed tampering at up to 60 stations, the precise technique—black masking tape and ink on buttons—lacks corroboration. The claim mixes a verified figure with unsubstantiated details, preventing a definitive verification.

### Claim 3 – The Falta repoll will be the first time an entire West Bengal constituency votes after overall election results are declared Evidence: Articles highlight that this repoll is unprecedented in West Bengal, noting that the entire Falta constituency will cast votes after the state‑wide results are announced. Verdict: True. Analysis: Historical election records show no prior instance of a whole constituency voting post‑result declaration in the state. Both reports agree, confirming the claim’s accuracy.

The EC’s decision underscores the seriousness with which India’s electoral watchdog treats procedural breaches. While the existence of tampering is clear, the exact scope and method remain partially undocumented. Watch for the May 21 repoll results on May 24 and any subsequent legal challenges that may clarify the extent of the alleged EVM interference.