Kolkata: Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) jawans, led by a commandant, knocked on the doors of Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim well past Monday midnight to interact with him regarding the second-phase poll scheduled on Wednesday.
Uncomfortable Interaction
The unscheduled meeting proved to be uncomfortable for the first citizen as he repeatedly sought to understand the purpose of such a visit. After initially inquiring about his probable whereabouts on polling day, the visiting officer reportedly advised Hakim to refrain from intimidating voters, warning of consequences otherwise.
Though Hakim repeatedly tried to clarify that intimidation was not part of his role as a candidate for the Kolkata Port seat, the officer reportedly told him he would be kept under vigil.
Mayor's Outrage
According to a source, the conversation lasted for 20 minutes. Later, speaking to reporters, an angry Hakim questioned whether CAPF officials had the authority to reach a candidate's home at midnight and harass them in the name of seeking information about the polls.
"I have never seen such activism on the part of central force personnel during any election. They don't spare the mayor at midnight and hesitate to issue veiled threats to a candidate. I strongly condemn this," said Hakim.
CAPF's Response
CAPF sources said a team was conducting area domination along with a police observer. "It was a routine drill where we asked contestants to follow the law. There was no targeted knocking on the door of Hakim," said a source. The Election Commission is yet to respond to Hakim's allegations.
