BJP MLAs and supporters attacked in Bankura during panchayat elections; severe injuries reported

As the panchayat elections approach in West Bengal, political violence has surged in several areas. A Congress candidate was attacked and bombed in Nakshipada, Nadia. In Bankura, allegations have been made against Sonamukhi Assembly Constituency MLA Dibakar Gharami and BJP workers for assaulting BJP supporters during the nomination process, resulting in a severe injury.

According to reports, MLA Dibakar Gharami and his supporters were attacked while filing nominations. The incident escalated when the head of a BJP supporter exploded. This violence follows the recent deaths of two individuals in Murshidabad and North Dinajpur in election-related clashes.

Violence has also been reported from the South 24 Parganas district. The husband of a CPM candidate in Kultali was allegedly assaulted, with allegations of a Trinamool attack. Abdul Halim Sardar sustained injuries in the incident.

The husband, affected by the attack, stated that he was blocked on his way home after participating in a party protest in front of Kultali police station. Trinamool-backed miscreants reportedly attacked him with weapons, intending to cause fatal harm.

In response to the escalating violence, the State Election Commission has imposed Section 144 within a 100-meter radius of all nomination centers. Security has been strengthened, and police forces have been deployed.

However, opposition party supporters claim that the police are favoring the ruling Trinamool Congress, as they allegedly remain passive during attacks on opposition party members. Opposition parties are demanding an extension of the nomination period.

The Calcutta High Court is currently hearing a case regarding the extension of the nomination period. The State Election Commission has expressed readiness to extend the nomination deadline until June 16, although the final decision lies with the court.