Kolkata, May 3: Tensions flared outside a counting center in Bidhannagar, North 24 Parganas, on Sunday, as supporters of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) clashed, according to police reports.
The altercation stemmed from a heated exchange between party workers in front of the strong room late Saturday night. This verbal dispute escalated quickly, resulting in shouting matches that turned into a physical confrontation.
To restore order, a significant number of central forces were deployed to the scene. Police also intervened to disperse the supporters. Subsequently, TMC and BJP workers were separated, and barricades were erected between the two groups.
The BJP accused TMC supporters of displaying party flags at their camp outside the counting center, which ignited the dispute. Conversely, TMC claimed that central forces charged at them with batons. Fortunately, the situation did not deteriorate further due to the timely intervention of central forces and Bidhannagar police.
Security around the strong room has been heightened, and strict measures have been implemented at all other counting centers. The administration had already imposed a ban on bursting firecrackers and holding victory parades outside the centers on counting day.
On Monday, votes will be counted at 77 counting centers for 293 assembly seats, following the two-phase assembly elections in West Bengal.
The Election Commission announced on Saturday that re-polling would take place at all booths in the Falta assembly constituency due to serious electoral irregularities detected during the second phase of voting on April 29. Therefore, votes will be counted for 293 assembly constituencies, excluding Falta.
To enhance security around the counting centers, the Election Commission has taken several measures.
Chief Minister and TMC leader Mamata Banerjee instructed her party’s counting agents on Saturday to demand a recount in cases where the BJP leads by 500 to 700 votes. She also advised agents to stay in a lodge or hotel on Sunday night to ensure timely arrival at the counting centers on Monday morning. This guidance was provided during a virtual meeting with agents from all assembly constituencies.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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