CPI(M) alleges misuse of agencies in West Bengal election review

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued a review of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, alleging that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured victory through the “gross misuse” of central agencies and the Election Commission of India (ECI). The CPI(M) specifically cited the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise as having a “big influence” on voter turnout, which rose from 82.32% in 2021 to 92.47% in 2026.

In the election, the BJP increased its seat count from 77 to 206, while the Trinamool Congress fell from 215 seats to 81. The CPI(M) described the BJP's win as a “major blow” achieved through divisive campaigns and large-scale spending.

Adding to political tensions, several CPI(M) offices in the Howrah district were reportedly vandalised by miscreants on a Tuesday night. While CPI(M) leaders alleged involvement by members of the ruling BJP, the BJP has denied any connection to the attacks, stating their workers were occupied with religious festivities and other programs.