KOLKATA, Apr 29: Incidents of violence, vandalism, and polling disruptions were reported from several parts of West Bengal during the early hours of voting in the second phase of the Assembly elections on Wednesday, raising concerns over security and electoral fairness.
Reports of unrest emerged from areas such as Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala, and Bhangar, where tensions escalated shortly after polling preparations began.
Alleged Assault Sparks Political Tension in Chapra
In Chapra, located in Nadia district, a polling agent affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was allegedly attacked inside a booth during the mock polling process. The individual, identified as Mosharef Mir, sustained injuries and was admitted to a nearby hospital, according to police officials.
BJP leaders accused supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of carrying out the assault. Party candidate Saikat Sarkar claimed that the agent was obstructed and physically attacked, resulting in a head injury.
The injured agent alleged that a group of 15–16 individuals confronted him, with one reportedly carrying a firearm. He further stated that he was struck with a rod before collapsing.
A formal complaint has been filed with local authorities. However, TMC representatives have denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated.
Vandalism Reported in Shantipur
In Shantipur, tension escalated after a BJP camp office in Ward No. 16 was found vandalised early in the morning. Furniture inside the office was damaged, prompting unrest in the locality. Police teams were deployed to control the situation and prevent further escalation.
Polling Obstruction Allegations in Bhangar
In Bhangar, situated in South 24 Parganas district, accusations surfaced regarding the obstruction of an agent belonging to the Indian Secular Front (ISF). The party alleged that its representative was prevented from entering a polling booth.
ISF leader Arabul Islam claimed that agents were being forcefully removed and voters, particularly women, were being denied access to polling stations. These allegations contributed to heightened tensions in the area.
Delayed Voting Causes Frustration in Nimtala
At a polling booth in Nimtala, voting was delayed significantly, with the process yet to begin even by 7:30 am. The delay led to visible frustration among voters waiting to cast their ballots, further adding to the tense atmosphere.
Election Authorities Seek Reports
Officials from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) stated that detailed reports have been requested from on-ground personnel in all affected locations. Authorities emphasized that strict measures are being taken to ensure free and fair polling without intimidation.
Security Tightened Across Sensitive Zones
Security arrangements were intensified across vulnerable constituencies. Police issued warnings against unlawful gatherings near polling booths, including one directed at individuals gathered near a booth involving relatives of senior political figures.
In South 24 Parganas, particularly in Falta and Diamond Harbour, heavy deployment of central forces was observed. Units of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) were stationed to maintain order and prevent escalation of conflict.
Additionally, a senior police officer from Uttar Pradesh, Ajay Pal Sharma, conducted patrols in Falta with a convoy, indicating heightened vigilance in sensitive pockets.