EC 'angry' over attack on Shashi Panja's house, seeks report from CP

The Election Commission of India has expressed strong displeasure over an alleged attack on the residence of Shashi Panja in the Girish Park area of Kolkata and has sought a detailed report from the city’s Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma. The incident reportedly took place amid heightened political tensions in the city ahead of a major political rally.

According to reports, unrest began when supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party arrived in Kolkata by bus to attend a rally at the Brigade Parade Ground. At Girish Park, a confrontation reportedly erupted after a “Boycott BJP” banner placed outside Panja’s residence was allegedly torn down, triggering clashes and vandalism in the area.

Reports said bricks were allegedly thrown and parts of the property were damaged during the incident. Panja was reportedly injured in the attack and sustained injuries on her back and waist. Several police personnel were also hurt while trying to control the situation.

Police from Kolkata Police, including officers from the Bowbazar Police Station, rushed to the spot and Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed to bring the situation under control. During the clashes, the officer-in-charge of Bowbazar Police Station was also injured after being struck by a brick while attempting to disperse the crowd.

The Election Commission has sought clarification from the police regarding the incident and asked why central security forces were not used despite the deployment of multiple companies in the city ahead of the elections. The development comes days after the Commission had reviewed the law and order situation in West Bengal and said it expected peaceful and fair elections in the state.