NDTV captures stone attack on Dilip Ghosh’s convoy during 2024 Lok Sabha Election in hot Bengal seat.

The voting process in Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha constituency in India has been marred by allegations of EVM malfunction and instances of political violence. Poll officials have reported that voting has generally been peaceful, but political parties have filed approximately 1,088 complaints regarding alleged EVM malfunctions and instances of agents being prevented from entering polling booths. In one incident, supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP clashed in certain areas of the constituency.

BJP candidate Dilip Ghosh faced protests and blockades from Trinamool supporters as he attempted to visit a polling booth in Kalna Gate. This led to an escalation of violence, with stones being thrown at Ghosh’s convoy and paramilitary personnel struggling to control the unruly crowd. Instances of violence have also been reported in other constituencies, with clashes between workers of various political parties.

In Krishnanagar, BJP candidate Amrita Roy was witnessed accompanying injured supporters to a police station after clashes with Trinamool supporters. Similarly, in Birbhum, there were reports of protests by Trinamool workers accusing central forces of intimidating voters. The atmosphere of tension and conflict during the voting process contrasts sharply with an earlier display of unity between Mr. Ghosh and his main opponent, Trinamool’s Kirti Azad, who hugged each other during a visit to a polling booth.

However, the overall tone of the election has been characterized by sharp barbs exchanged between leaders of the ruling Trinamool and the BJP, its main challenger. Mr. Ghosh has accused the Trinamool of obstructing the entry of polling agents into booths and intimidating voters. In response, Trinamool has accused Mr. Ghosh of trying to disrupt the electoral process due to a perception of a potential defeat.

Overall, the voting process in several constituencies has been marred by allegations of violence and malpractice, highlighting the contentious nature of the ongoing election.