In West Bengal, a case of violence came to the fore regarding the Panchayat elections which was held today on 8th July. So far 15 people have died in this violence. During this, people are running away after looting the ballot box.
The polling started at 7am on morning as people turning out early amid the intermittent rains, by afternoons mobs were seen running with ballot box. It’s reported that 2 booth officer also got shot. The polls are likely to see a fierce tussle for control of local administrations between the ruling TMC, ISF, and the BJP as it will be a litmus test for both parties ahead of next year’s Lok Sabha elections in 2024.
“The situation goes beyond a mere election; it resembles a state of lawlessness, akin to a ‘jungle raj.’ The heroes who fought for India’s freedom in 1942 declared this very land as free, but today it is in turmoil due to the actions of Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, along with the complicity of the West Bengal Police. It is imperative for the central government to intervene and make a decision. I demand that if President’s rule is not imposed, Mamata Banerjee should continue as the chief minister, but with the understanding that we will remove her through democratic elections. However, to ensure the safety of citizens, it is crucial to implement Article 355. The well-being of the people should be our priority”: West Bengal LoP & BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on West Bengal Panchayat elections violence.
As violence continue, three Trinamool Congress workers were allegedly killed in separate incidents Nadia, Murshidabad and Malda district. A BJP polling agent was allegedly killed in Cooch Behar. A CPI(M) worker who was critically injured last evening in East Burdwan district, succumbed to his wounds in a hospital this morning. Another supporter of an independent candidate was allegedly injured in a clash in Kadambagachi of North 24 Parganas. His family claimed that the man was beaten to death.
Kalimpong district also witness attack on BJP Candidate who was contesting from Bhalukhap Gram panchyat in kalimpong.
Cutting across ideological lines, all parties in West Bengal on Saturday condemned the killing of 10 people in various districts as voting for the panchayat elections is underway, while the opposition BJP called for President’s Rule in the state.
Leader of the opposition in the state assembly, Suvendu Adhikari of the BJP, demanded that President’s Rule be imposed in the state. “A free and fair election under the state administration is a mirage. It is only possible only if elections are held under President’s Rule or Article 355,” he said.
