CPI(M) Accuses BJP of Violent Overthrow Tactics Ahead of Tripura Panchayat Polls

The CPI(M) has accused the BJP of violent attacks on its workers in Tripura as the August 8 panchayat polls approach. They allege BJP interference in nomination filings and report increased violence since the 2018 BJP state assembly win. The CPI(M) demands adequate measures for a fair election.

The CPI(M) accused the BJP on Wednesday of instigating a ''spate of violent attacks'' on its workers in Tripura ahead of the August 8 panchayat polls, claiming candidates were forcibly prevented from filing nominations.

The Left party stated that since the local body elections were announced, CPI(M) candidates and supporters have faced relentless attacks by alleged BJP loyalists.

''The politburo of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) strongly condemns the spate of violent attacks unleashed by the ruling BJP ahead of the three-tier panchayat elections in Tripura on August 8, 2024,'' said a statement.

The CPI(M) alleged that a July 13 incident resulted in the death of Badal Shil, a candidate for the South Tripura Zilla Parishad, at the hands of ''BJP goondas''.

''Leaders and workers have been injured and hospitalized following these brutal attacks. Opposition leaders have been forcibly stopped from attending all-party meetings convened by election officials,'' it said.

The BJP has also allegedly threatened to kill opposition candidates attempting to submit nominations, and vehicles carrying opposition leaders were attacked even in the presence of police, CPI(M) claimed.

Incidents of stone pelting on CPI(M) processions and bomb attacks on their leaders' residences have been reported.

Since the BJP's state assembly win, ''30 party members and workers have been killed in these murderous attacks,'' it said.

''These tactics have created an atmosphere of terror in the state, raising doubts about the free and fair conduct of the elections,'' it added.

The CPI(M) demanded steps to ensure that all candidates could file nominations and that the polls were free and fair. The panchayat polls are scheduled for August 8, with vote counting on August 12.

A six-member Left delegation met the state election commissioner and presented a four-point charter of demands to ensure peaceful elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)