Protests Erupt Over Electoral Roll Changes in West Bengal

Protests erupted against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar during his visit to West Bengal. Kumar faced backlash over alleged arbitrary deletions in electoral rolls. Despite protests, he continued his state visit, emphasizing the commitment to violence-free elections. The controversy intensified with accusations from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar encountered significant protests during his West Bengal visit, with angry crowds waving black flags and shouting 'go back' slogans. The uproar is linked to allegations of arbitrary deletions in the post-Special Intensive Revision electoral rolls.

Despite facing demonstrations at notable locations such as Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kumar remained steadfast in his commitment to ensuring violence-free elections. During a visit to Belur Math, he articulated the poll panel's determination to facilitate a festive polling atmosphere.

Escalating tensions, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized Kumar's perceived threats to state officials amidst the controversy over voter deletions. The dispute underscores a deepening rift between the state government and the Election Commission as the assembly elections approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)