Violence Flares in Bengal: TMC-BJP Clashes Mar Polling Day with Allegations of Electoral Malpractices

Violent clashes erupted between TMC and BJP supporters in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali region citing alleged electoral malpractices. Despite claims of peaceful voting, police resorted to lathicharge and tear gas to control the mob. Widespread violence and EVM malfunctions were reported across West Bengal.

Violent clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters in the strife-torn Sandeshkhali region of Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday, following allegations of electoral malpractices. The skirmishes resulted in numerous injuries, prompting police to resort to lathi-charge and tear gas shelling for crowd control.

Incidents of violence were also reported in the remaining eight parliamentary constituencies of West Bengal that went to the polls in the final phase. While the poll panel claimed the overall voting process was generally peaceful, it acknowledged receiving 1,899 complaints of alleged EVM malfunctions and claimed polling agents were impeded from entering booths. By 3 pm, approximately 58.46 per cent of the over 1.63 crore voters had cast their votes, according to an Election Commission official.

Multiple clashes were reported between TMC, ISF, and BJP backers across various state pockets. In Sandeshkhali, tensions escalated over accusations of electoral malpractice, leading to police intervention. With allegations from both sides, the confrontation intensified, necessitating forceful measures by law enforcement to restore order.

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