Kolkata, April 26: Amid reports of voter intimidation during the West Bengal assembly elections, the state’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal visited Kakdwip in the South 24 Parganas district on Sunday to assess the situation.
Following complaints of intimidation in the Diamond Harbour area, immediate instructions were issued to local election officials and police to ensure that voting is conducted peacefully and fairly. Officials have been directed to ensure that no voter faces fear or pressure, allowing them to exercise their voting rights without apprehension.
Reports emerged of individuals on motorcycles intimidating voters, with threatening slogans being shouted during a bike rally. Upon receiving these complaints, the Election Commission ordered prompt action and tightened security measures in the area.
CEO Manoj Agarwal engaged with candidates and their election agents in Kakdwip. He will subsequently review the situation in surrounding areas with administrative and police officials. After his visit to Kakdwip, he is set to travel to Katwa in the Purba Bardhaman district, where he will also meet with candidates and officials.
Kakdwip and Katwa are among the 142 assembly constituencies where the second phase of voting is scheduled for April 29.
Earlier on Friday, the Election Commission took strict action by suspending five police officers, including the Additional SP and SDPO of Diamond Harbour, for serious violations of the code of conduct and failure to maintain impartiality. The state’s Chief Secretary has also been instructed to take action against these officials.
The first phase of voting in Bengal took place on April 23, with over 92 percent voter turnout recorded. The second and final phase of voting will occur on April 29, with vote counting scheduled for May 4.