Protests Break Out in Bengal’s Falta Over Alleged Poll Rigging, TMC Faces Local Anger

Kolkata: Tensions flared in the Falta Assembly constituency of West Bengal on Saturday as residents staged protests, accusing workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of intimidation and electoral malpractice.

Locals from the Hashim Nagar area alleged that voting in the constituency has been manipulated for years and demanded a re-poll at specific booths before the Assembly election results are declared on May 4. Protesters claimed that free and fair voting has not taken place in the region for nearly 15 years.

Serious allegations were also levelled against a local TMC leader, Israfil Chakdar, with residents accusing him of leading groups that threatened and harassed families, including women and children. Some protesters claimed that threats of violence and intimidation were used to influence voting behaviour.

Residents further alleged that complaints to the West Bengal Police did not yield timely action. While police reportedly assured arrests, locals claimed no immediate steps were taken, and some even alleged receiving threat calls afterward.

The situation escalated as demonstrators accused the police of using force, including cane charges, to disperse the gathering. Several women alleged they were beaten during the crackdown and expressed concerns over their safety.

Protesters also claimed that movement and daily activities were being restricted, with allegations that individuals were prevented from going to work, opening shops, or travelling freely. Some residents alleged they were targeted based on their political preferences, including support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Amid rising tensions, personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed in the area to maintain order.

Authorities have not yet issued a detailed response to the allegations. The situation remains sensitive as demands for re-polling continue to grow in the constituency.

With inputs from IANS