Scorpio with Ex-Army sicker & BJP logo triggers chaos at Shakhawat strongroom

Tensions flared outside the Shakhawat Memorial strongroom on Sunday morning, just one day before the high-stakes election counting, following an alleged security breach. Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers, who were stationed outside to guard the EVMs, erupted in protest after a Scorpio vehicle reportedly managed to bypass police cordons. The incident led to a heated confrontation between TMC supporters and the police regarding the enforcement of security protocols in the sensitive area.

The TMC has made explosive allegations regarding the vehicle, claiming it was adorned with "Ex-Army" stickers along with the BJP’s logo and flag. According to protesters, the car stopped directly in front of the strongroom, and an individual disembarked to enter the restricted premises. This sparked immediate outrage among TMC activists, who questioned how an outside vehicle could enter a zone where Section 163 is currently in effect, prohibiting gatherings and unauthorized movement within 200 meters.

The Shakhawat Memorial premises had already been under a heavy security blanket following previous incidents of unrest, with both police and army personnel stationed to ensure a flawless cordon. Trinamool leaders had previously expressed fears of potential rigging, with some even standing guard for hours on Thursday night. This fresh incident has reignited those concerns, leading to a massive gathering that forced additional security forces to intervene to disperse the crowd.