“Deploy INS warships & Rafales too”: TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee
TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday sarcastically called for the deployment of Indian Navy warships and IAF Rafale jets in the state, alleging that central forces were intimidating voters. Speaking to reporters amid polling, Banerjee accused personnel from the CAPF of obstructing voters and preventing many from casting their ballots. In a pointed remark, he said that if such a heavy presence of central forces was considered necessary, then “INS warships and Rafales should also be sent to Bengal,” drawing a comparison to wartime deployments. Banerjee alleged that more than 30 lakh voters were being deliberately stopped from voting and accused the Centre of using intimidation tactics. Despite these claims, he expressed confidence that his party would secure a decisive victory when results are announced on May 4. The opposition BJP rejected the allegations, calling them baseless and exaggerated. BJP leaders countered that the ruling party was attempting to divert attention from issues such as local violence and alleged irregularities, and maintained that CAPF deployment was aimed solely at ensuring free and fair elections.
Suvendu Adhikari claims TMC’s using fake finger skins to rig votes
BJP leader and candidate Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that the Trinamool Congress is attempting to manipulate the voting process in Bhabanipur. Incumbent Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is the TMC candidate in the constituency. According to Adhikari, TMC used what he described as “fake finger skins” to cast fraudulent votes. He claimed that around 750 such artificial finger coverings were procured to bypass voter identification systems. He argued that such practices undermine the fairness of elections, alleging they could allow individuals to vote multiple times and distort the democratic process. Expressing serious concern, Adhikari has urged the Election Commission to immediately investigate the matter and take strict action against those found responsible, stating that such actions are harmful to democracy.
CAPF arrests key accused in Jagatdal TMC-BJP violence
Central Armed Police Forces have apprehended Sikander Prasad, a key accused in the April 27 clash between supporters of the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party in Jagatdal, West Bengal. Acting on specific intelligence, security personnel conducted a search operation and found Prasad hiding under a bed in an attempt to evade arrest. He was swiftly taken into custody without incident. The April 27 violence had raised serious concerns about law and order in the area, with both TMC and BJP accusing each other of instigating the clash. Several individuals were reportedly injured. Following the incident, CAPF has stepped up patrols across Jagatdal to prevent any further escalation. Officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may be made.