EC warns Mamata-led TMC ahead of Bengal polls (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: With the West Bengal Assembly elections just weeks away, the Election Commission of India has issued a firm warning to the All India Trinamool Congress, stressing that the upcoming polls must be conducted without violence or malpractice.
The poll body emphasised that voting should be “fear-free, violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement-free,” underlining its intent to ensure a clean electoral process.
In a public message, the Commission cautioned against illegal activities such as booth capturing, booth jamming and “source jamming,” which involves disrupting voter mobilisation.
The EC described its communication as “straight-talk,” signalling a stricter approach in managing elections in the state, which has a history of poll-related violence.
The warning triggered strong reactions from opposition leaders. Mahua Moitra criticised the tone of the message, comparing it to an ultimatum.
Saket Gokhale accused the Commission of targeting a single party and questioned whether similar action would be taken against the Bharatiya Janata Party. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav also weighed in, making critical remarks about the functioning of the poll body.
West Bengal has witnessed repeated incidents of election-related violence over the years. Reports from previous elections have documented numerous clashes, injuries and fatalities during campaigning and polling phases.
The EC’s latest directive appears aimed at preventing a repeat of such incidents and restoring confidence in the electoral process.
Tensions between the ruling party and the Commission have escalated in recent weeks. The TMC has alleged bias in the revision of electoral rolls, claiming that a large number of voters have been removed unfairly.
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The party has also opposed the transfer of several officials, arguing that the move could influence the conduct of elections. The EC, however, maintains that such steps are necessary to ensure neutrality and prevent any undue influence.
Voting in West Bengal will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.
As the state heads toward a crucial electoral contest, the focus remains on whether authorities can ensure a peaceful and transparent voting process.
