Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, May 3: A minor clash was reported between supporters of the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party outside a counting centre in Bidhannagar, located in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, police said.
The incident occurred late Saturday night near the strongroom area, where tensions flared following an argument between workers from the two parties. The verbal confrontation, marked by slogan-shouting from both sides, eventually escalated into a brief physical altercation.
Security forces, including central personnel, were quickly deployed to the spot, and local police intervened to disperse the crowd. Authorities later separated supporters of the two parties and erected barricades to prevent further confrontation.
The BJP alleged that the clash began after Trinamool workers put up party flags at a temporary camp outside the counting centre. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress members accused central forces of using force against their supporters. Officials, however, said the situation was brought under control without further escalation.
Security has since been tightened around the strongroom and other counting centres across the state. The administration has also prohibited fireworks and victory processions in the vicinity of counting locations.
Counting of votes for 293 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal is scheduled to take place on Monday across 77 centres. The Election Commission of India has already ordered re-polling in all booths of the Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district following reports of serious irregularities during voting.
Ahead of the counting process, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee directed her party’s counting agents to remain vigilant and seek recounts in closely contested booths if necessary. She also advised them to stay close to counting centres to ensure timely presence on counting day.
Authorities said strict security arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and peaceful counting process across the state.