TMC alleges ‘open distribution of free liquor for votes’ in Medinipur, writes to CEO seeking action against BJP

The All India Trinamool Congress has written to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal alleging large-scale electoral malpractice in the 216-Dakshin Kanthi Assembly constituency, accusing Bharatiya Janata Party workers and leaders of distributing liquor to influence voters. In its complaint, the party has sought immediate intervention, including criminal proceedings and enforcement action.

The letter names BJP worker Chandrashekhar Giri, BJP Mahila Morcha leader Minati Giri, and party candidate Arup Kumar Das, alleging that they were engaged in the illegal distribution of liquor to voters in areas under Booth No. 196 in Contai-I block of Purba Medinipur. According to the complaint, liquor was being distributed free of cost with the explicit intent of inducing voters to support the BJP in the upcoming election.

Describing the alleged activity as a “pre-meditated scheme,” the party claimed that such distribution indicates the existence of an organised supply chain and financial backing aimed at manipulating the electoral process. The complaint further stated that the acts amount to bribery under Section 123(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and also constitute offences under Sections 171 and 174 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, besides violating the Model Code of Conduct.

The party has urged the election authorities to issue show-cause notices to the accused individuals, register criminal complaints, deploy surveillance teams to the area, and seize any illicit liquor being distributed. It has also demanded that those found involved be barred from participating in election-related activities, stressing the need to ensure free, fair and transparent polls.