EN Desk Assam, Breaking News!!, NE States

133 individuals find refuge in Assam amidst WB Panchayat Poll violence

In the wake of the intense violence surrounding the panchayat election in West Bengal, a group of 133 individuals who feared for their safety sought refuge in the Dhubri District of Assam. The news was confirmed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who assured that the state government has provided them with a safe haven, nourishment, and medical aid in a relief camp.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the state government has taken swift action to support those affected by the election violence. The individuals who sought refuge in the Dhubri District have been provided with shelter, food, and medical assistance in a relief camp. This immediate response aims to ensure their safety and well-being during this challenging time.

Responding to numerous reports of election fraud and outbreaks of violence, the State Election Commission (SEC) declared the voting in 19 districts as “null and void.” Consequently, re-polling is now required at 697 booths across those affected areas. After conducting a meeting on July 9 to assess the situation, the commission decided to take appropriate actions. The announcement of the election results is scheduled for July 11.

The panchayat elections witnessed sporadic violence in various parts of north and south Bengal, including Cooch Behar, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, Murshidabad, Malda, Howrah, South 24 Parganas, and East Burdwan. Tragically, the three-tier election process claimed the lives of at least 19 individuals. Additionally, a TMC worker lost their life due to injuries sustained in a bomb explosion at Sitalkuchi in Cooch Behar district.

Meanwhile, the ongoing counting of votes in the violence-stricken panchayat and rural body elections in West Bengal is underway. This follows a day of repolling across 696 polling booths in the 19 affected districts. According to the latest updates, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) holds a lead in 461 seats, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ahead in 92 seats, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) trails with 108 seats.