In a disturbing turn of events during the West Bengal Panchayat Elections 2023, a ballot box was set on fire by angry voters in Cooch Behar district. Reports of alleged bogus voting triggered the violent act, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing rural polls in the state.
Amidst the polling process, a video shared by news agency ANI captured the shocking incident. In the footage, a ballot box can be seen engulfed in flames, while individuals wielding sticks emerge from the polling booth. The polling booth itself suffered extensive damage as a result of the violence.
Tragically, since midnight, nine lives have been lost in election-related violence. According to officials, the victims included five members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), along with one worker each from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M), and Congress. Additionally, a supporter of an Independent candidate also lost their life. The clashes between rival groups resulted in several injuries, and in at least two polling booths, ballot boxes were destroyed.
In response to the escalating violence, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose visited various areas of the North 24 Parganas district. He met with the injured individuals and engaged in conversations with voters to assess the situation. Officials reported the unfortunate death of a BJP polling agent named Madhab Biswas in the Falimari gram panchayat of Cooch Behar district.
The polling process commenced at 7 am, covering a total of 73,887 seats in rural areas of the state. Approximately 5.67 crore people are participating in these elections, determining the fate of around 2.06 lakh candidates. By 11 am, a voter turnout of 22.6% had been recorded.
The incidents of violence and destruction of ballot boxes are alarming, posing a significant challenge to the electoral process and raising concerns about the safety of voters and election officials. Authorities are now faced with the critical task of investigating and addressing these incidents to ensure the fair and peaceful conduct of the remaining phases of the West Bengal Panchayat Elections.
As the election continues, it is essential for all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and security of voters and maintain the integrity of the democratic process. Steps should be taken to prevent further violence and address the concerns of the electorate, fostering an environment conducive to free and fair elections.
Sources By Agencies
