Bengal phase 2 polls: Raids, Central deployment and rising tension
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids in Kolkata ahead of the second phase of West Bengal's Assembly elections, sparking allegations of political motivation from the ruling Trinamool Congress. The Election Commission of India deployed Central forces and personnel, with over 17,000 government employees assigned to polling duties.
The second phase of West Bengal's Assembly elections is set for 29 April. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids in Kolkata on Sunday, linked to a money-laundering probe involving fugitive Biswajit Poddar. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) alleged the raids were politically motivated, a charge the BJP rejected. The Election Commission of India (ECI) deployed over 17,000 Central government employees to polling duties across seven districts. Security arrangements were expanded, with Kolkata Police deploying 229 Quick Response Teams, 57 Flying Squad Teams, and 57 Static Surveillance Teams. The ECI stated that the redeployment was driven by administrative necessity and aimed at ensuring impartiality.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.