Election – CISF Personnel Injured in Firing Ahead of Polling in Bengal
Election – Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel was injured in a late-night firing incident outside the residence of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, officials confirmed on Monday.
Incident Occurs on Eve of Second Phase Voting
The firing took place on Sunday night in Bhatpara, just days before the second phase of elections scheduled for April 29. The injured security personnel, identified as Yogesh Sharma, was part of the protection team assigned to BJP candidate Pawan Singh. Sharma suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was promptly taken to a nearby hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Authorities have not yet confirmed the source of the gunfire.
Election Commission Seeks Detailed Report
Following the incident, the Election Commission has requested a comprehensive report from local authorities. Officials are examining the sequence of events and assessing whether the violence could impact the upcoming polling process. Law enforcement agencies have begun collecting evidence, although no conclusive findings have been shared so far.
Earlier Tensions in Jagaddal Area
The situation in the region had already been tense earlier in the day. According to police sources, unrest began in the Jagaddal locality after a worker associated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was allegedly attacked while placing party flags and banners. This incident triggered political reactions, with several TMC leaders arriving at a local police station to file complaints.
Clashes Outside Police Station
Soon after, supporters from both political parties gathered near the police station, leading to heated arguments. The confrontation quickly escalated into a physical altercation, with reports of stone-pelting. Police intervened and managed to bring the situation under control, but tensions remained high throughout the evening.
Violence Near Candidate’s Residence
Later that night, unrest resurfaced near the residence of the BJP candidate. Eyewitnesses reported that crude explosives were thrown in the area, followed by at least one instance of gunfire. It was during this episode that the CISF jawan was injured. Authorities are investigating whether the two incidents are connected.
Political Allegations and Counterclaims
Both major political parties have blamed each other for the violence. A local TMC leader alleged that their party workers were attacked while attempting to file a complaint, questioning the safety even within police premises. On the other hand, BJP representatives denied the allegations and claimed their supporters were targeted. They further stated that the injured CISF personnel was hit during an attack carried out by individuals allegedly linked to the opposing party.
Security Tightened, Investigation Continues
In response to the escalating tensions, a significant police presence has been deployed across the affected areas to maintain order. Security arrangements have been strengthened ahead of the polling date to prevent further incidents. Officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that additional details will be released once clarity emerges on the circumstances surrounding the firing.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about law and order in politically sensitive regions, particularly during election periods when rivalries often intensify. Authorities have urged all parties to maintain peace and cooperate with the investigation to ensure a fair and secure voting process.