The seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal witnessed clashes, violence, and allegations of malpractice. Supporters of rival parties, TMC and Indian Secular Front, clashed in Jadavpur constituency while in South 24 Parganas, a mob reportedly threw EVM and VVPAT machines into the water. BJP candidate Tapas Roy faced protests and slogans from TMC workers while the BJP accused TMC workers and police of threatening their polling agents ahead of the elections. Amid tight security, voting is being held in nine seats in West Bengal.
Lok Sabha Elections 2023: West Bengal's Final Phase Marred by Violence, Malpractice
The seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal witnessed widespread clashes, violence, and allegations of malpractice, casting a shadow over the electoral process.
Clashes and Violence
In Jadavpur constituency, supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Indian Secular Front (ISF) clashed, resulting in injuries to several individuals. In South 24 Parganas, a mob reportedly vandalized an EVM and VVPAT machine and threw them into the water. BJP candidate Tapas Roy faced protests and slogans from TMC workers, while the BJP alleged that its polling agents were threatened by TMC and police personnel.
Police Intervention
Amidst the chaos, police intervened to restore order and apprehend those involved in the violence. However, allegations of police bias and partiality were raised by both the TMC and the BJP.
Malpractice Allegations
Both the TMC and the BJP accused each other of engaging in electoral malpractices, including intimidation of voters, booth capturing, and manipulation of EVMs. Several incidents of false voting and voter impersonation were reported.
Background
The Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal have historically been marked by high levels of political violence and malpractice. In the previous Lok Sabha elections in 2019, over 100 incidents of violence were reported, resulting in the deaths of several individuals.
Security Arrangements
In an attempt to ensure a peaceful election, the Election Commission deployed over 100,000 security personnel to man polling stations and maintain law and order. However, the widespread violence and malpractice suggest that the security arrangements proved insufficient.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1. What is the Lok Sabha? A1. The Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Indian Parliament, consisting of 545 members elected from various constituencies across the country.
Q2. What is the purpose of the Lok Sabha elections? A2. The Lok Sabha elections are held every five years to elect the members of the Lok Sabha, who represent the people's interests and make laws for the country.
Q3. What is the significance of the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal? A3. The final phase determines the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, which has 42 parliamentary constituencies.
Q4. Why was the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal marred by violence? A4. The violence stemmed from intense political rivalry between the TMC and the BJP, combined with historical tensions and allegations of electoral malpractices.
Q5. What measures can be taken to prevent violence and malpractice in future Lok Sabha elections? A5. Strengthening security arrangements, improving voter education, and implementing strict penalties for electoral offenses are some key measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
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