Violence and bombing in WB Panchayat elections kills 17, dozens injured

Violence erupted during the panchayat elections in West Bengal as voting for 74.14 panchayat seats commenced on Saturday. Numerous incidents of stone pelting, arson, and looting were reported from various areas of the state, resulting in a significant loss of life and property.

In Beldanga, Murshidabad, a clash between Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC) led to the death of ruling party worker Babar Ali. Tension gripped the area following the violence, and a Congress staff member was admitted to the hospital after being shot. In Behar, as polling stations opened, they were vandalized, ballot papers were looted, and fires were set.

In Hiatpur, Arambagh, Hooghly district, intense clashes between TMC supporters and independent candidates have resulted in numerous injuries. Suvendu Adhikari, a BJP leader, vowed to take action to safeguard democracy in Bengal amidst the violence. The BJP has announced street protests against the violence during the panchayat elections and plans to stage a demonstration outside the State Election Commission office.

Further clashes erupted in Chopra, Nadia district, where Trinamool Congress and Congress party members clashed, resulting in the death of a Trinamool worker and injuries to nine individuals. In Arandi Gram Panchayat 2, Arambagh area of Hooghly, shelling continued at a polling station, causing injuries to Zameer Hussain, the son of the outgoing panchayat chief.

The discount scheme will not be applicable to special trains introduced for holidays or festivals. The ongoing violence and chaos during the panchayat elections in West Bengal have caused serious concerns about the safety and integrity of the electoral process. Multiple casualties have been reported, and incidents of vandalism, looting, and clashes have disrupted voting across the state.

Political parties, including the Trinamool Congress, BJP, and Congress, have been involved in aggressive campaigning, exacerbating the tense situation.

The State Election Commission is under scrutiny for alleged security failures, while the deployment of central forces has not been able to prevent the outbreak of violence. The future of the panchayat elections hangs in the balance as authorities strive to restore order and ensure a fair and peaceful electoral process.