West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for allegedly assaulting Trinamool Congress workers. She visited polling booths in South Kolkata during the ongoing Assembly elections’ second phase across 142 seats in the state. Security measures include CCTV cameras, CAPF personnel deployment, and strict polling arrangements.
Banerjee claimed that a Trinamool Congress worker was beaten up, accusing the BJP of attempting to manipulate the elections. She expressed concern over the presence of external election observers and police officers, alleging pressure tactics. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for peaceful voting and criticized the BJP for disrupting the democratic process.
Calling the CRPF forces “hooligans,” Banerjee accused them of assaulting a party councillor’s family members. Polling for 142 constituencies in six districts, including Kolkata, began with minor tensions. Incidents of unrest were reported, including clashes and allegations of obstruction by ruling party activists at polling booths.
Tensions escalated in various constituencies, with allegations of misconduct and delays due to technical issues. The second phase of the Assembly polls in West Bengal is under heavy security, with the deployment of multiple central forces and extensive webcasting at all polling stations.
