Cooperative elections see clashes and allegations of electoral malpractice in Konnagar

Significant unrest erupted during the cooperative elections of Navgram People's Co-operative Limited in Konnagar on Sunday, as Left Front supporters accused Trinamool Congress supporters of booth capturing and engaging in fake voting. The allegations led to a demonstration where CPI(M) supporters blocked the Navgram Nati Road, raising slogans against the Trinamool government. Voting for 56 seats across 18 booths in three Navgram schools commenced at 12 noon, featuring a direct contest between candidates backed by Trinamool and CPI(M).

Despite heavy police deployment in anticipation of potential tensions, Left parties claim that votes were cast forcibly at multiple booths. They allege that voters were prevented from entering polling stations, and Trinamool supporters forcefully cast "stamp votes." Protesters called the incidents an "open murder of democracy" and accused the police of remaining "mute spectators" during the alleged malpractices. The blockade caused significant disruption, highlighting the deep political divisions in the area.

Conversely, the Trinamool Congress has vehemently rejected all accusations. Party leaders asserted that the voting process was conducted peacefully, and the public participated in the democratic exercise with full enthusiasm. They termed the outcome a "victory of the republic," dismissing the opposition's claims as unfounded. As allegations fly between the rival political factions, tension continues to prevail at the spot, with the police administration closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.