Bengal Polls: Voters Threatened With Murder, IPS Ajay Pal Sharma Intervenes

Violence and clashes continue to mar the second phase of voting in West Bengal, with reports of unrest emerging from several locations. In the Falta Assembly constituency, serious allegations have been leveled against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for intimidating voters. Local residents claim that TMC workers are issuing death threats to those participating in the democratic process, while a mother and her son reached out to Election Observer Ajay Pal Sharma, alleging that they were threatened with murder and warned not to return to their home if they cast their votes.

Death Threats to Voters in Falta

The incident was reported from polling station number 204 in Falta. Dilip Mandal and his mother stated that since they cast their votes, they've been receiving threats of being killed if they enter their house. Fearing for their lives, the duo met with Observer Ajay Pal Sharma to seek protection. Sharma has reportedly assured them of their safety. It's noteworthy that Falta is considered a stronghold of TMC leader Jahangir Khan. The victims expressed deep concern over the lack of security for common citizens during the polling process.

Attack on BJP Candidate and Lathi Charge in Belsingha

The second phase also witnessed an attack on BJP candidate Vikas Sardar in South 24 Parganas. His vehicle was vandalized, and he alleged that he was physically assaulted by individuals shouting 'Joy Bangla' slogans. Sardar questioned the security arrangements, stating that if a candidate isn't safe, the safety of the general public is in jeopardy. Meanwhile, at booth number 186 in Belsingha, Falta, central forces had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse a crowd that had gathered within the 100-meter radius of the polling station, leading to a tense atmosphere in the area.

Unrest in Howrah Over EVM Malfunction

Tension also flared up in the Bali Assembly constituency of Howrah at the Don Bosco Liluah Sahanlal Vidyalaya polling center. The voting process was disrupted due to a malfunction in the EVM machine, which agitated the waiting voters. As the situation escalated, security forces deployed at the site conducted a lathi charge to restore order, while two individuals have been arrested in connection with the unrest. Despite the deployment of NIA to prevent violence and bombings, reports of clashes and disturbances continue to surface from multiple districts.

Amidst the reports of violence, the state is witnessing a high voter turnout. 11% polling was recorded by 1 PM. In this second phase, the political fate of 1448 candidates is being decided across 142 constituencies. This follows the first phase held on April 23, where 152 seats saw a massive turnout of over 92 percent. Security forces remain on high alert to ensure the remainder of the polling process concludes without further major incidents.