KOLKATA: Incidents of violence and vandalism were reported from several parts of West Bengal during the early hours of voting in the second phase of the assembly elections on Wednesday, according to police sources. The disturbances occurred across multiple locations, including Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala, and Bhangar, as per news agency PTI.
Assault on BJP Polling Agent
A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) polling agent was allegedly assaulted by individuals linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) at booth number 53 in Chapra, located in Nadia district. Party leaders identified the victim as Mosharef Mir, who was subsequently admitted to a local hospital. BJP candidate Saikat Sarkar stated that the incident took place after the mock poll had begun. “TMC supporters obstructed the BJP agent and hit him on the head, causing injury,” Sarkar said. The injured person recounted that 15 to 16 TMC supporters charged at him, with one individual carrying a gun. He claimed he was assaulted with a rod, causing him to collapse. A complaint has been lodged with the local police station, though the TMC has denied the allegations.
Vandalism at BJP Camp Office
In Shantipur, a BJP camp office located in ward number 16 was found vandalized on Wednesday morning. Furniture was smashed, triggering tension in the area, police reported.
Disruption in Bhangar
In Bhangar, situated in South 24 Parganas district, allegations surfaced that an agent of the Indian Secular Front (ISF) was prevented from entering a polling booth, sparking unrest. ISF leader Arabul Islam claimed, “Agents' forms are being snatched and they are being thrown out... Women are not being allowed to vote. We placed agents so that everyone can vote.”
Delayed Voting in Nimtala
Voting was delayed at booth number 140 in Nimtala, where polling had not begun even by 7:30 am, leading to tension among voters.
Official Response
An official from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) stated, “We have sought reports from the respective officials posted in these areas. They have been asked to ensure that polling is free and fair and everyone can participate without intimidation.”
Meanwhile, police issued a warning to Kartik Banerjee, brother of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, as well as TMC workers who gathered close to a polling booth, stating that no more than four people would be allowed to gather at a spot, officials said.
An Uttar Pradesh Police officer, Ajay Pal Sharma, was seen touring Falta in South 24 Parganas district with a convoy since morning. Heavy central force deployment was also reported in Diamond Harbour and Falta, with units of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) stationed to maintain order.
