By Soniya:
A major fire at a government building in Kolkata’s Alipore area has destroyed nearly 4,000 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), triggering a high-level investigation and political controversy in West Bengal. The EVMs were reportedly used in multiple constituencies during the recent Assembly elections.
The blaze broke out at the multi-storey administrative building housing several government offices, including election-related departments. Firefighters battled the flames for nearly 24 hours before bringing the situation under control. Initial reports indicate that the fire caused extensive damage to EVMs, ballot units, control units, and VVPAT machines stored in the building.
West Bengal Fire Services Minister Kaushik Chowdhury stated that the pattern of the fire appeared unusual and raised concerns about possible sabotage. Following the incident, Kolkata Police registered an FIR and constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the cause of the fire and assess the extent of damage. Forensic experts have also been deployed to investigate whether the blaze resulted from an electrical fault, accident, or deliberate act.
Election Commission officials and engineers from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) are expected to inspect the affected machines to determine how many EVMs can be salvaged and whether any additional electoral safeguards may be required.
The incident has sparked political reactions across party lines, with both ruling and opposition leaders demanding a transparent investigation. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation until forensic findings and official reports are released.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials are expected to release further details after the completion of forensic and technical assessments
