West Bengal: Police Takes Major Action Against Post-poll Violence; Over 200 FIRs Filed, More Than 400 Arrests

Kolkata: The atmosphere in West Bengal remains tense following the results of the Assembly elections. Following the BJP's landslide victory and the Trinamool Congress's ouster from power after 15 years, reports of violence, vandalism, and clashes have emerged from various parts of the state. Amidst these incidents, the police administration has now claimed that the situation is under control. According to the state's DGP, over 200 FIRs have been registered, and more than 400 people have been arrested.

The state's Director General of Police (DGP), Siddha Nath Gupta, stated that strict action has been taken regarding the violence that erupted after the elections. He informed that, so far, over 200 FIRs have been registered, and 433 individuals have been arrested in connection with various cases. Additionally, more than 1,100 people have been detained under various sections of the law. According to the DGP, following these actions, no new untoward incidents have been reported since this morning, and the situation is now calm.

Did CEC Direct Action?

Reports of two deaths and the vandalism of several party offices during the post-election violence had further aggravated the situation. Consequently, the Election Commission also adopted a firm stance.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar issued clear directives to state officials to take immediate action against those accused of involvement in the violence and vandalism, and to ensure their arrest. According to officials, this directive from the Commission was issued with the objective of bringing the situation under control.

Is There Violence in Various Parts of West Bengal?

Violence erupted in different locations across West Bengal following the announcement of the election results. On Tuesday evening, BJP worker Madhu Mandal died after allegedly being beaten by TMC workers during a victory procession in the New Town area. Meanwhile, earlier in Nanur, Birbhum, TMC worker Abir Sheikh was allegedly murdered by BJP workers who attacked him with a sharp-edged weapon. Alongside this, reports of arson and vandalism emerged from TMC offices located in Kolkata's Tollygunge and Kasba areas, as well as in the suburbs of Baruipur, Kamarhati, and Baranagar, and in the cities of Howrah and Berhampore.

In the Bijoygarh-Netaji Nagar locality of Tollygunge, a mob vandalized the election office of Trinamool Congress candidate and former minister Arup Biswas. Meanwhile, in Sandeshkhali, a team that arrived on the scene following complaints of villagers being intimidated and threatened after the declaration of election results was attacked. Three police personnel and two personnel from the central forces sustained injuries in this attack. Currently, the administration states that the situation is under control following strict action; however, security arrangements across the entire state continue to be closely monitored.