The third round of voting in Falta, located in the Diamond Harbour region of West Bengal, is set for May 21. This development is unusual, even in a state known for intense election activity.

The Election Commission of India ordered a complete repoll across all 285 polling booths. It cited a “failure of the democratic process” as the reason. This decision has challenged the long-standing perception of smooth electoral management in the area.

The so-called ‘Diamond Harbour model’, once seen as a system of efficient political control, is now facing serious scrutiny.

What is the ‘Diamond Harbour model’?

Political observers describe the ‘Diamond Harbour model’ as a highly organised system that ensures control at the booth level. It combines strong party networks, administrative familiarity, and local influence to manage elections effectively.

However, the situation in Falta suggests that excessive control may have undermined the electoral process itself. Reports of villagers protesting and filing complaints are rare in this region, where political dominance has usually gone unchallenged.

The pace of voting has also raised concerns. A large portion of votes was recorded early in the day, even as complaints continued and clashes were reported. This has led to questions about whether participation was genuine or artificially increased.

The Election Commission’s decision to conduct a full repoll indicates that the issue was widespread, not limited to isolated incidents.

“The ‘Diamond Harbour model’ is no longer just political strategy. it represents a system of ground-level control built on mobilisation, intimidation, and economic pressure. Since Abhishek Banerjee became MP, it has come to define how the Trinamool Congress consolidates power in an area, that is often beyond the reach of institutional checks," said Professor Sayantan Ghosh.

Strong voter base supports political dominance

The region gives the Trinamool Congress a clear advantage. Around 38 to 40 percent of the voters are from the Muslim community, which has traditionally supported the party. These voters are concentrated in key assembly segments such as Falta, Diamond Harbour, Metiaburuz, Maheshtala and Budge Budge.

Diamond Harbour, represented by Abhishek Banerjee since 2014, has seen the party’s winning margin grow significantly over time. The victory margin increased from around 70,000 votes in 2014 to nearly 3.5 lakh in 2019, and further to over 7 lakh in 2024.

Across South 24 Parganas district, many constituencies have a high proportion of Muslim voters, strengthening the party’s position. The Trinamool Congress also controls all seven assembly segments in the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency and dominates the local panchayat structure.

Allegations point to deeper issues

The controversy in Falta goes beyond isolated irregularities. Allegations include tampering with voting machines, missing video footage, unauthorised access to voting compartments, and misuse of companion voting.

These claims suggest a pattern where tight control may have turned into exclusion. Some residents have long complained about restricted access to voting and pressure at the local level. There are also concerns about informal systems linked to welfare benefits influencing voter behaviour.

In semi-industrial areas like Falta, Budge Budge, and Metiaburuz, local power structures often play a significant role in shaping electoral outcomes.

Political accountability under question

The issue has now moved beyond local concerns. Trinamool candidate Jahangir Khan has been accused by Election Commission Police Observer Ajay Pal Sharma of intimidating voters. This shifts attention from anonymous booth-level activity to identifiable political responsibility.

There have also been claims from sections of Hindu voters that they were prevented from voting. Additionally, missing or incomplete video records have raised concerns about transparency, making it difficult to verify the integrity of the process.

“Abhishek Banerjee’s Diamond Harbour has evolved into more than a constituency. It is a fortress and a power centre of the Trinamool Congress. The failure of the Election Commission of India to assert control, even after deploying a senior IPS officer Ajai Pal Sharma, who ended up exposing himself instead of restoring order, reflects how deeply entrenched this model of dominance has become," said Professor Ghosh.

Historical context adds irony

The region’s history adds an interesting dimension. Diamond Harbour, earlier known as Hajipur, has links to Portuguese activity. The term ‘harmad’, now used in Bengal politics to describe armed cadres, is believed to have originated from ‘armada’.

This term was once used by Mamata Banerjee against her opponents. Today, opposition parties use it to describe the ruling party’s local machinery.

Repoll becomes a test of credibility

The Falta repoll is not just a repeat of voting. It has become a test of the credibility of a political system that has long delivered consistent victories.

When voters return to the booths on May 21, the result will matter. However, more importantly, the process itself will be closely watched. For the first time in years, the outcome may not be seen as predictable, making this election a critical moment for electoral transparency in the region.