On Friday, the CPI(M) alleged that BJP-backed miscreants obstructed their candidates from submitting nominations for the upcoming Panchayat elections. In response, CPI(M) leaders and activists organized a roadblock in protest.
Former MLA and senior CPI(M) leader Sudhan Das addressed the press regarding the incident in Rajnagar block, Belonia, and strongly condemned the actions of the ruling party as ‘undemocratic.’ Das called on the administration to take immediate and adequate measures.
“When we were going to submit nomination papers, approximately 100-150 miscreants backed by the ruling BJP stopped us and attacked us. The incident took place in front of the police personnel,” said Das. He added that despite informing the Returning Officer, SDPO, and other authorities about their nomination submission plan, the hooligans began throwing bricks and stones as soon as they arrived at the school.
Das further alleged that BJP workers attacked CPI(M) activists with sticks and empty beer bottles, injuring many, including himself. He criticized the BJP government, claiming that since its formation in 2018, all elections have been turned into a farce, undermining democracy.
Das also criticized the State Election Commission (SEC), stating, “We repeatedly urged the SEC to take proper steps and ensure free and fair polls. But the state government and SEC have failed to give any assurances. Eighty percent of the population lives in villages, and the economy also depends on villages.” He argued that the BJP’s pre-poll violence indicated their fear of losing to the Left.
The three-tier Panchayat elections are scheduled for August 8, with the counting of votes set for August 12.
