TMC leader arrested for voter intimidation during election campaign in Murshidabad

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered the arrest of Raju Mandal, president of Trinamool Congress (TMC) Ward 8 in Baharampur, Murshidabad, following allegations of intimidating voters during the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 campaign. The action was taken after verification confirmed accusations that Mandal threatened voters to influence their choice at the polls. The arrest on Friday night has intensified scrutiny of the election environment in the district.

Allegations suggest that Mandal went door-to-door campaigning for his party’s candidate, warning residents not to vote for the BJP’s lotus symbol. Sources indicate that he told voters, “Do not vote for the lotus symbol. If there is any trouble with voting, there is no need to vote. I will send sweets to your house. And if you must vote, vote for TMC.” Mandal also reportedly threatened that each household’s vote would be monitored and recorded.

The viral circulation of a video showing Mandal’s statements prompted swift action from the ECI. Authorities emphasized the need to maintain free and fair elections in the state, particularly in light of earlier incidents such as the Malda unrest, which led to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) overseeing investigations. The Commission reiterated that any form of voter intimidation or election law violation would face strict legal consequences.

Murshidabad police acted under the ECI’s directive and arrested Mandal late on Friday. Election officials stated that the arrest was necessary to ensure democratic principles are upheld and to send a clear message against political coercion. The move has drawn attention from opposition parties, who said it reflects the challenges faced by voters in some areas of the state.

Local TMC leadership has remained largely silent on the incident. The arrest, closely monitored by the ECI, has further heightened tensions as the state prepares for the upcoming assembly elections. Authorities have stressed continued vigilance and the enforcement of law and order to guarantee a transparent electoral process.