Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Wednesday criticised the Trinamool Congress, alleging that a “culture of violence” has long dominated West Bengal politics, and said that people are now able to vote without fear due to the presence of Central Armed Police Forces during the election process.
Speaking to reporters amid the second phase of polling in the state, Chowdhury said that the deployment of central forces has helped restore confidence among voters in several sensitive areas. He claimed that earlier elections in West Bengal were marked by intimidation and irregularities, which discouraged free participation.
He further stated that ordinary voters are now coming out to exercise their democratic rights without pressure or fear, crediting the Election Commission’s arrangements for ensuring a more secure environment this time.
Chowdhury also targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress, accusing it of fostering an atmosphere of political violence over the years. He alleged that opposition workers were often subjected to threats and attacks, which he said had affected the fairness of elections in the past.
The Congress leader urged the administration and election authorities to maintain strict vigilance throughout the remaining phases of polling to ensure that voters can continue to cast their ballots peacefully.
His remarks come at a time when political parties in West Bengal are engaged in intense exchanges of allegations over polling conduct, security arrangements, and alleged bias. The Trinamool Congress has, in several instances, criticised the role of central forces and the Election Commission, while opposition parties have praised their deployment.
Polling in the state continues under tight security, with central forces stationed at sensitive booths and surveillance measures in place to prevent any disturbances. Officials have stated that the overall situation remains under control, despite isolated reports of tension in some areas.
