Convoy of the sitting MP and CPI(M) candidate from Raiganj, Mohammed Salim, was attacked while he was on his way to cast his vote in Patagora this morning. Reportedly, stones were thrown and bullets were fired at his car in Islampur. Following the attack, Salim was taken to the party’s office and is said to be safe.
While the second phase of the general election progresses in the three constituencies of West Bengal – Darjeeling, Raiganj and Jalpaiguri – reports of violences have come from other polling booths as well. Voters blocked the National Highway (NH) 34 near Girpar in Raiganj claiming that some miscreants didn’t allow them to vote. This compelled the police to use batons. NH 31, near Chopra in Darjeeling, was blocked for similar reasons. To disperse the mob, police used batons, tear gas and fired in the air. The Central forces are now handling the situation.
The Election Commission (EC) has sought a report from the state administration.
Violence was reported in Purulia district as well, when BJP’s 22 year old member from the youth wing, Sisupal Sahis, was found hanging from a tree in Senabana village this morning.
Booth capturing and incidents of violence were reported from West Bengal in the first phase ,on April 11, as well.
Mohammad Salim is contesting against the Congress candidate Deepa Dasmunsi, BJP candidate Deboshree Chowdhury and TMC candidate Kanaia Lal Agarwal. Chaudhary has alleged that TMC workers attempted booth capturing at Raiganj Coronation High School.