The Election Commission has instructed the police to act upon an offensive meme video circulating before the second phase of voting in West Bengal. The video, which reportedly targets Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has prompted the Commission to direct the police to take action despite no formal complaint being filed yet. Possible registration of a case under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act is being considered in connection with the video.
The upcoming second phase of polling in West Bengal is set for Wednesday, April 29. This phase will include voting in Kolkata’s Bhabanipur constituency, where Mamata Banerjee is a candidate facing opposition from Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, who is contesting on a BJP ticket. Both candidates engaged in heated exchanges during campaigning, which concluded on Monday at 6 p.m.
During a recent address in Chakraberia, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced disruption when alleged BJP workers conducted a microphone campaign near the venue, leading her to cut short her speech. She later accused the BJP of lacking courtesy and held a procession the following day. The Election Commission took notice of the offensive video circulating in this context and urged swift action.
As the Assembly elections continue, the Commission has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring fair and transparent polls in West Bengal. Enforcement drives by state and central agencies have resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of liquor and drugs, with significantly higher quantities seized this election compared to previous ones. The second phase of polling covering 142 Assembly constituencies in the state is scheduled for Wednesday.
