Kolkata: A fire broke out at a party office of the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Jamuria on Monday, with the party alleging that supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were behind the incident. The development comes amid heightened tensions across West Bengal as counting for the Assembly elections continued.
Arson allegation amid high political tension
According to TMC leaders, the office in Jamuria was deliberately set on fire during the counting process. The allegation surfaced at a time when political tempers are running high, with both major parties closely monitoring trends and results.
While no official confirmation regarding the cause of the fire has been issued yet, the accusation has added to the already charged atmosphere in the state.
Clashes reported at multiple counting centres
Violence was not limited to Jamuria. Several incidents of clashes between rival party workers were reported from different districts during the counting process.
At the Rastraguru Surendranath counting centre in Barrackpore, North 24 Parganas, a scuffle broke out, prompting immediate deployment of security personnel to bring the situation under control.
In Dinhata, located in Cooch Behar district, tensions escalated further as clashes between BJP and TMC workers intensified. Central forces had to resort to a lathicharge to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Earlier unrest in Asansol
Earlier in the day, similar disturbances were reported from Asansol, where a clash near the Engineering College counting centre turned violent. Reports indicated that chairs and vehicles were vandalised during the incident.
Police intervened and carried out a lathicharge to control the situation and prevent further escalation.
Political developments add to tension
The unrest coincided with shifting political trends in the state. As counting progressed, BJP supporters gathered outside the residence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata, raising slogans as the party appeared to gain ground.
These developments have contributed to rising tensions, with supporters from both sides reacting strongly to emerging results.
Security tightened across West Bengal
In response to the incidents, authorities have stepped up security arrangements across sensitive areas in the state. Additional forces have been deployed at counting centres and other key locations to maintain law and order.
Officials said they are closely monitoring the situation and taking preventive measures to avoid further disturbances as counting continues.
Conclusion
With multiple incidents of unrest reported during the counting process, the situation in West Bengal remains tense. Authorities are on high alert to ensure that the process concludes peacefully, even as political developments continue to unfold.