The final phase of Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal was marred by sporadic incidents of violence, primarily between the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party. Though the Election Commission claimed a peaceful process, 1,450 complaints were received of EVM malfunctions and agents being stopped from entering booths. In the first two hours of polling, only 28.10 per cent of 1.63 crore voters exercised their franchise. Meanwhile, clashes broke out between TMC and ISF supporters in Bhangar, with allegations of crude bombs being hurled and police intervention and lathi charges following suit.
The Tense Final Phase of Lok Sabha Polls in West Bengal
The final phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal witnessed sporadic violence, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Background
West Bengal is a politically volatile state with a history of political clashes between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The 2019 elections were particularly tense, with both parties fielding high-profile candidates and seeking to consolidate their support base.
Sporadic Violence and Electoral Irregularities
During the final phase of polling, there were multiple reports of violence between TMC and BJP supporters. In the Bhangar constituency, clashes broke out between TMC and Indian Secular Front (ISF) supporters, resulting in allegations of crude bombs being hurled. Police intervened to quell the violence, but not before lathi charges were used.
In addition to the violence, there were also allegations of electoral irregularities. The Election Commission received 1,450 complaints of EVM malfunctions and agents being prevented from entering polling booths. In the first two hours of polling, only 28.10 percent of the 1.63 crore eligible voters cast their ballots.
Election Commission Claims and Opposition Concerns
Despite the irregularities, the Election Commission maintained that the polling process was largely peaceful. However, opposition parties expressed skepticism, alleging that the TMC had used its influence to intimidate voters and manipulate the electoral process. BJP leader Amit Shah accused the TMC of "capturing booths" and disrupting the polls.
FAQs
1. What caused the violence in West Bengal? The violence was primarily caused by clashes between TMC and BJP supporters, likely fueled by political rivalry and the high stakes of the election.
2. Were there any specific incidents of violence? Yes, clashes were reported in the Bhangar constituency, resulting in allegations of crude bombs being hurled. Police intervened to quell the violence.
3. How did the Election Commission respond to the allegations of electoral irregularities? The Election Commission maintained that the polling process was largely peaceful, but it did receive 1,450 complaints of EVM malfunctions and agents being prevented from entering booths.
4. What were the turnout figures for the final phase of polling? In the first two hours of polling, only 28.10 percent of the eligible voters cast their ballots.
5. What are the implications of the violence and irregularities for the election results? The violence and irregularities could raise questions about the fairness and credibility of the election results, particularly if they are perceived as having affected the outcome in any particular constituency.
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