The 4th phase of the Lok Sabha election 2019 has been summed up, though it had witnessed violence in various provinces in West Bengal.

Lok Sabha election 2019: EC asks police to lodge FIR against BJP's Babul Supriyo

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Monday reacted to PM Modi's remark that "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-40-trinamool-congress-mlas-ready-to-join-once-bjp-wins-polls-says-pm-narendra-modi-214436">40 TMC MLAs are in contact with me</a>" and said that "nobody" will go with the BJP in the state.&nbsp;

Calling the prime minister "expiry babu" he said that not even "one councillor will go with him".

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Derek O'Brien, TMC on PM's remark "40 TMC MLAs in contact with me": Expiry Babu PM. Nobody will go with you, not even 1 councilor. Are you election campaigning or horse trading, your expiry date is near. Today, we are complaining to EC. Charging you with horse trading. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/mLkaMq8AwZ">pic.twitter.com/mLkaMq8AwZ</a>
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"Are you election campaigning or horse-trading? Your expiry date is near. Today, we are complaining to EC. Charging you with horse-trading," O'Brien added.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, while addressing a rally in Serampore in West Bengal, PM Modi sharpened his attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and said that "your MLAs will leave you. Even today, didi, 40 of your MLAs are in contact with me".&nbsp;

"Goons of the Trinamool Congress are trying their hardest to stop people from voting and attacking BJP workers," the PM added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Monday reacted to PM Modi's remark that "40 TMC MLAs are in contact with me" and said that "nobody" will go with the BJP in the state.

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Monday reacted to PM Modi's remark that "40 TMC MLAs are in contact with me" and said that "nobody" will go with the BJP in the state. Calling the prime minister "expiry babu" he said that not even "one councillor will go with him". Derek O'Brien, TMC on PM's remark "40 TMC MLAs in contact with me": Expiry Babu PM. Nobody will go with you, not even 1 councilor. Are you election campaigning or horse trading, your expiry date is near. Today, we are complaining to EC. Charging you with horse trading. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/mLkaMq8AwZ — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2019 × "Are you election campaigning or horse-trading? Your expiry date is near. Today, we are complaining to EC. Charging you with horse-trading," O'Brien added. Earlier in the day, while addressing a rally in Serampore in West Bengal, PM Modi sharpened his attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and said that "your MLAs will leave you. Even today, didi, 40 of your MLAs are in contact with me". "Goons of the Trinamool Congress are trying their hardest to stop people from voting and attacking BJP workers," the PM added.

We're complaining to Election Commission, charging you with horse-trading: TMC on PM Modi's '40 MLAs are with me' remark

Lok Sabha election 2019: TMC workers clash with cops at polling booth

Lok Sabha election 2019 reaches its half-way mark with voting in the fourth of seven phases taking place across 72 constituencies where 961 candidates are in the fray. Watch this video to know more.

Lok Sabha Election 2019: Big ticket battles in phase 4

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Lok Sabha Polls: India votes in phase 4 of General Polls

Taking a jibe at West Bengal chief minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections/politicians/mamata-banerjee">Mamata Banerjee</a>, who the Prime Minister claimed gifted him kurtas and sweets, senior Congress leader Raj Babbar wondered how the Trinamool Congress leader knew the size of Modi`s kurta.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a recent interview claimed that he has many <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-have-many-friends-in-opposition-mamata-banerjee-sends-kurtas-sweets-to-me-pm-narendra-modi-to-akshay-kumar-213161">"good friends" in the Opposition including Mamata</a> Banerjee, who sent personally-selected kurtas and sweets to him.

"Two products from West Bengal are famous across the world. One is sweets made of cottage cheese and another is the 'kurta'. But till date, Mamata ji has not sent these two to us or anyone else. If she wants to gift them, she sends it to only one person. So you can understand that she knows the size of a kurta. Earlier, we used to raise questions if the size of his chest is 56 inches or not," Babbar said here in a press conference.

"Mamata didi saal me aaj bhi mujhe ek-do kurte wo khud select karne jati hain (Even today Mamata didi herself selects one-two Kurtas for me in the year). She sends one-two Kurtas for me. Even Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sends sweets to me three-four times in a year especially from Dhaka. When Mamata didi got to know this, then she also started sending sweets for me one or two times in a year," the Prime Minister had said in an interview with actor Akshay Kumar.

Interestingly, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-bengals-culture-says-mamata-in-veiled-response-to-pms-remark-on-receiving-sweets-from-her-213285">Mamata </a>has mostly been critical about Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government and has openly opposed their various initiatives including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and demonetisation.

Last week, Mamata had accused Prime Minister Modi of causing hardships to the people through demonetisation and said the electorate in West Bengal will pay back by not casting a "single vote" for him.&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who the Prime Minister claimed gifted him kurtas and sweets, senior Congress leader Raj Babbar wondered how the Trinamool Congress leader knew the size of Modi`s kurta.

Taking a jibe at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who the Prime Minister claimed gifted him kurtas and sweets, senior Congress leader Raj Babbar wondered how the Trinamool Congress leader knew the size of Modi`s kurta. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a recent interview claimed that he has many "good friends" in the Opposition including Mamata Banerjee, who sent personally-selected kurtas and sweets to him. "Two products from West Bengal are famous across the world. One is sweets made of cottage cheese and another is the 'kurta'. But till date, Mamata ji has not sent these two to us or anyone else. If she wants to gift them, she sends it to only one person. So you can understand that she knows the size of a kurta. Earlier, we used to raise questions if the size of his chest is 56 inches or not," Babbar said here in a press conference. "Mamata didi saal me aaj bhi mujhe ek-do kurte wo khud select karne jati hain (Even today Mamata didi herself selects one-two Kurtas for me in the year). She sends one-two Kurtas for me. Even Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sends sweets to me three-four times in a year especially from Dhaka. When Mamata didi got to know this, then she also started sending sweets for me one or two times in a year," the Prime Minister had said in an interview with actor Akshay Kumar. Interestingly, Mamata has mostly been critical about Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government and has openly opposed their various initiatives including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and demonetisation. Last week, Mamata had accused Prime Minister Modi of causing hardships to the people through demonetisation and said the electorate in West Bengal will pay back by not casting a "single vote" for him.

Raj Babbar takes jibe at Mamata Banerjee, asks how did she know PM Modi's kurta size

It is a three-cornered contest in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ls-polls-north-malda-to-witness-tough-fight-between-first-cousins-212079&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwif8MLJ--XhAhUB3Y8KHWssCDUQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rmpqaLc_D9xwIrmHEw0Eu">Malda</a>, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-phase-3-voting-on-april-23-212719&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwif8MLJ--XhAhUB3Y8KHWssCDUQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-4PH-ZrdqOxgXwH_bzoRj">the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections</a>, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat.

 
Muslims form a major chunk of the electorate in both the Maldaha North and the Maldaha South seats, which have stayed with the Congress for almost 40 years, and there is a distinct buzz about the need for a change this time.

 
And that buzz has created a space, which the BJP and the TMC are vying for.

 
While the Congress has pitted Isha Khan Choudhury against sitting Congress MP and now TMC nominee Mausam Noor, Ghani Khan's nephew and niece respectively&nbsp;from Maldaha North, the BJP has fielded former CPI(M) leader Khagen Murmu in the seat.

 
In Maldaha South, sitting Congress MP Abu Hasem Khan, Ghani Khan's brother, is contesting against Moazzem Hossain of the TMC and Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury of the BJP.

 
"How long can we vote for these people who are still using the name of their dead dada (brother), mama (maternal uncle) for votes," Bhaskar Ghosh (22) asked, referring to the family of Ghani Khan Choudhury, the late eight-time MP who won consecutively between 1980 and 2004, followed by his family members in both the constituencies separated by the delimitation in 2009.

 
For Ghosh, a student who works at a computer repair shop in Kaliachak, the TMC might benefit from the "waning magic of Ghani Khan" in the Maldaha South Lok Sabha seat, where riots had broken out in January 2016 over purported derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad.

 
However, he agrees with other locals that the riots opened the doors for the BJP to emerge as a key player in the area, leading to the saffron party's surprising win in the assembly seat of Baishnabnagar, which has a Muslim population of around 52 per cent.

"Dalubabu (Abu Hasem Khan, the sitting MP from Maldaha Dakshin) is a spent force here. He comes here only when there is election and forgets about us. All he does when he comes here is talk of Ghani Khan. We don't want to know what they have done for us in the past. We want to know what they can do now," Ghosh added.

 
"No Hindu vote is going to Dalubabu this time. However, we are the minority here, so he could still win," Ranjan Haldar (29), who runs a business in the area, said.

 
BJP national secretary and Bengal in-charge Kailash Vijayvarghi, who was in Malda to campaign for Murmu, indicated that the party had made major inroads and was a serious threat to the Congress this time.

 
"There is now a fervour for the BJP. Our workers have worked tirelessly. The buzz around the party is more than it was in 2014. This politics of appeasement (by ruling TMC in the state) had to end," Vijayvarghi told PTI.

 
"The Congress had tried to isolate Muslims from Narendra Modi. But we truly believe in Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. We are addressing the people's basic issues, be it Hindus or Muslims. It is a myth that Muslims are anti-Modi," he added.

 
Murmu, once a grassroots CPI(M) leader, said that he is confident of retaining his votes from 2014 when he ended second to Noor in Maldaha North. However, as a BJP candidate this time, he is unlikely to bag the Muslim votes.

 
"What the BJP has done is to ensure that there is polarisation. While some Hindus may vote for the BJP, it is difficult to say if Ghani Khan loyalists will move en masse.

What we are sure of is that we are not voting for them. The problem is that the votes in our community also might split between the Congress and the TMC, and herein lies the problem," Md Emazuddin (45), a businessman from Ratua, which falls under Maldaha North, said.

 
Days after the Pulwama terror attack and the resultant air strikes, Malda saw a flurry of activities from BJP workers, recalled locals.

 
"They organised bike rallies, displayed photos of the dead soldiers and the Muslim community organised marches to condemn the attack. It was tense, the city was tethering between jubilance and anxiety," Ajwarul, a small business owner in Ratua, said.

 
However, just 40 km away in Gazole, people feel Mamata Banerjee is the answer to the city's communally tense atmosphere.

The TMC will clinch the Malda North seat, with both the Muslims and Hindus voting in its favour, they opined.

"Most of the roads that you see here are because of her. She has ensured our children go to school and free uniform and books are provided to them. No one else has done such much for us," Abdul Qayum, a labourer in Gazole, said.

 
Both communities in the constituency praised Mamata Banerjee for her Kanyashree scheme and the pension scheme for the aged.

The TMC-led government's scheme promoting education is also a big hit with both communities, most of whom survive on small businesses or work as labourers.

Most people here said they were hit hard by demonetisation and the GST, and are open to change.

 
Meanwhile, Congress' Isha Khan Choudhury, blamed the chief minister for creating space for the saffron party in the area. 
"Mamata has played into the hands of the BJP. Her politics has created a vacuum in which the BJP sees hope. However, we are not worried. If there are free and fair elections, we will win," Choudhury said.

The Congress has virtually been given a walkover by the Left in both these seats, with CPI(M) voters openly pledging support to Congress candidates. 
But for TMC's Noor, the fight in Malda is Didi vs Modi.

"The TMC has emerged as the only secular force which can fight the polarisation of the BJP," Noor, through whom the TMC is trying to woo Congress voters, said. 
However, her tag as a "betrayer", by both her party and her family, is a sore issue with many TMC supporters.

 
As voting was underway Tuesday, the two seats in Malda could be anyone's game.

It is a three-cornered contest in Malda, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat.

It is a three-cornered contest in Malda, one of the last Congress bastions in West Bengal, which goes to polls on Tuesday in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections, and Muslim votes are likely to settle the fight for the seat. Muslims form a major chunk of the electorate in both the Maldaha North and the Maldaha South seats, which have stayed with the Congress for almost 40 years, and there is a distinct buzz about the need for a change this time. And that buzz has created a space, which the BJP and the TMC are vying for. While the Congress has pitted Isha Khan Choudhury against sitting Congress MP and now TMC nominee Mausam Noor, Ghani Khan's nephew and niece respectively from Maldaha North, the BJP has fielded former CPI(M) leader Khagen Murmu in the seat. In Maldaha South, sitting Congress MP Abu Hasem Khan, Ghani Khan's brother, is contesting against Moazzem Hossain of the TMC and Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury of the BJP. "How long can we vote for these people who are still using the name of their dead dada (brother), mama (maternal uncle) for votes," Bhaskar Ghosh (22) asked, referring to the family of Ghani Khan Choudhury, the late eight-time MP who won consecutively between 1980 and 2004, followed by his family members in both the constituencies separated by the delimitation in 2009. For Ghosh, a student who works at a computer repair shop in Kaliachak, the TMC might benefit from the "waning magic of Ghani Khan" in the Maldaha South Lok Sabha seat, where riots had broken out in January 2016 over purported derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad. However, he agrees with other locals that the riots opened the doors for the BJP to emerge as a key player in the area, leading to the saffron party's surprising win in the assembly seat of Baishnabnagar, which has a Muslim population of around 52 per cent. "Dalubabu (Abu Hasem Khan, the sitting MP from Maldaha Dakshin) is a spent force here. He comes here only when there is election and forgets about us. All he does when he comes here is talk of Ghani Khan. We don't want to know what they have done for us in the past. We want to know what they can do now," Ghosh added. "No Hindu vote is going to Dalubabu this time. However, we are the minority here, so he could still win," Ranjan Haldar (29), who runs a business in the area, said. BJP national secretary and Bengal in-charge Kailash Vijayvarghi, who was in Malda to campaign for Murmu, indicated that the party had made major inroads and was a serious threat to the Congress this time. "There is now a fervour for the BJP. Our workers have worked tirelessly. The buzz around the party is more than it was in 2014. This politics of appeasement (by ruling TMC in the state) had to end," Vijayvarghi told PTI. "The Congress had tried to isolate Muslims from Narendra Modi. But we truly believe in Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. We are addressing the people's basic issues, be it Hindus or Muslims. It is a myth that Muslims are anti-Modi," he added. Murmu, once a grassroots CPI(M) leader, said that he is confident of retaining his votes from 2014 when he ended second to Noor in Maldaha North. However, as a BJP candidate this time, he is unlikely to bag the Muslim votes. "What the BJP has done is to ensure that there is polarisation. While some Hindus may vote for the BJP, it is difficult to say if Ghani Khan loyalists will move en masse. What we are sure of is that we are not voting for them. The problem is that the votes in our community also might split between the Congress and the TMC, and herein lies the problem," Md Emazuddin (45), a businessman from Ratua, which falls under Maldaha North, said. Days after the Pulwama terror attack and the resultant air strikes, Malda saw a flurry of activities from BJP workers, recalled locals. "They organised bike rallies, displayed photos of the dead soldiers and the Muslim community organised marches to condemn the attack. It was tense, the city was tethering between jubilance and anxiety," Ajwarul, a small business owner in Ratua, said. However, just 40 km away in Gazole, people feel Mamata Banerjee is the answer to the city's communally tense atmosphere. The TMC will clinch the Malda North seat, with both the Muslims and Hindus voting in its favour, they opined. "Most of the roads that you see here are because of her. She has ensured our children go to school and free uniform and books are provided to them. No one else has done such much for us," Abdul Qayum, a labourer in Gazole, said. Both communities in the constituency praised Mamata Banerjee for her Kanyashree scheme and the pension scheme for the aged. The TMC-led government's scheme promoting education is also a big hit with both communities, most of whom survive on small businesses or work as labourers. Most people here said they were hit hard by demonetisation and the GST, and are open to change. Meanwhile, Congress' Isha Khan Choudhury, blamed the chief minister for creating space for the saffron party in the area. "Mamata has played into the hands of the BJP. Her politics has created a vacuum in which the BJP sees hope. However, we are not worried. If there are free and fair elections, we will win," Choudhury said. The Congress has virtually been given a walkover by the Left in both these seats, with CPI(M) voters openly pledging support to Congress candidates. But for TMC's Noor, the fight in Malda is Didi vs Modi. "The TMC has emerged as the only secular force which can fight the polarisation of the BJP," Noor, through whom the TMC is trying to woo Congress voters, said. However, her tag as a "betrayer", by both her party and her family, is a sore issue with many TMC supporters. As voting was underway Tuesday, the two seats in Malda could be anyone's game.

As BJP, TMC dive deep, Congress bastion Malda sees battle for Muslim votes

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The ruling Trinamool Congress demanded his immediate removal, claiming that Nayak has allegiance to the RSS and the BJP and is acting as per their orders.

The people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and therefore their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, who is the former Bihar chief electoral officer, said.

The situation in Bihar has improved and less number of central forces are required there now, he told newsmen at the office of the West Bengal chief electoral officer here.

Nayak, a 1984-batch IAS officer, was recently given the responsibility to oversee the last five phases of polls in West Bengal.

"This situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago. During that time in Bihar total deployment of central forces at the booths was required. Now it is required in West Bengal as the people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and are seeking deployment of central forces at all the booths," he told reporters.

"I cannot understand that if people in Bihar were able to bring in a change in the atmosphere and situation there, then why this is not happening in West Bengal," Nayak said in the presence of state Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab.

He said that in the third phase of polling on April 23, 324 companies of central forces would be deployed to cover more than 92 per cent of the polling booths in five Lok Sabha constituencies.

Balurghat, Malda North, Malda South, Jangipur and Murshidabad parliamentary constituencies will go to the polls on April 23.

Nayak, however, sounded hopeful that the state may require less central force by next Parliamentary elections.

"In terms of election management, things are improving in West Bengal. So I am sure by the time of next Parliamentary elections it will not require this kind of central force deployment. I am sure about that," Nayak said.

In the first phase on April 11, central forces were deployed in 51 per cent of the booths in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar seats and 194 companies covered 80 per cent of the booths in Raiganj, Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the second phase on April 18.

In the first phase, there were reports of booth capturing, smashing of EVMs and intimidation. Similar incidents were reported in the second phase from Chopra in Darjeeling constituency and also from Islampur in Raiganj constituency. There were also reports of damage to the vehicle of sitting CPI-M MP Mohammed Salim at Raiganj.

Nayak said no negligence was found after scrutiny of the pollings in the first phase and there will be no repoll in the constituencies where voting was held on the day.

The special observer, however, did not dismiss chances of repolling in some booths where polling was held in the second phase.

TMC secretary general Subrata Bakshi wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora demanding the immediate removal of Nayak to ensure free and fair polls in the state.

"The Election Commission after two phases of polling had said, barring a few incidents the polling was peaceful. Nayak's comments are highly misplaced. He is acting in a partisan manner with pre-conceived notions to destabilise elections in the state and create a fear psychosis among voters," Bakshi said in the letter.

Nayak has political and organisational allegiance to the RSS and is connected to BJP leaders. His statements clearly indicate that he has acted as per instructions of his political bosses, he said.

"It is therefore requested to immediately recall him or cancel his appointment as a special observer in the state of West Bengal to ensure free and fair elections," Bakshi said.

The EC has appointed Vivek Dubey as the special police observer for the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal.

Meanwhile, the EC has transferred Malda district Superintendent of Police Arnab Ghosh and has brought in the commanding officer of the second battalion of state armed police Ajoy Prasad in his place.

Sources said Ghosh, who was reportedly close to the Trinamool Congress administration, was under the EC scanner.

The state BJP had urged the EC to remove Ghosh a few days ago.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The Election Commission special observer, Ajay V Nayak Saturday said the situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago and had lead to the voters' demand for deployment of central forces in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The ruling Trinamool Congress demanded his immediate removal, claiming that Nayak has allegiance to the RSS and the BJP and is acting as per their orders. The people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and therefore their demand for deployment of central forces at all polling booths has increased, Nayak, who is the former Bihar chief electoral officer, said. The situation in Bihar has improved and less number of central forces are required there now, he told newsmen at the office of the West Bengal chief electoral officer here. Nayak, a 1984-batch IAS officer, was recently given the responsibility to oversee the last five phases of polls in West Bengal. "This situation in West Bengal is similar to what it was in Bihar around 10 to 15 years ago. During that time in Bihar total deployment of central forces at the booths was required. Now it is required in West Bengal as the people of West Bengal have lost faith in the state police and are seeking deployment of central forces at all the booths," he told reporters. "I cannot understand that if people in Bihar were able to bring in a change in the atmosphere and situation there, then why this is not happening in West Bengal," Nayak said in the presence of state Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab. He said that in the third phase of polling on April 23, 324 companies of central forces would be deployed to cover more than 92 per cent of the polling booths in five Lok Sabha constituencies. Balurghat, Malda North, Malda South, Jangipur and Murshidabad parliamentary constituencies will go to the polls on April 23. Nayak, however, sounded hopeful that the state may require less central force by next Parliamentary elections. "In terms of election management, things are improving in West Bengal. So I am sure by the time of next Parliamentary elections it will not require this kind of central force deployment. I am sure about that," Nayak said. In the first phase on April 11, central forces were deployed in 51 per cent of the booths in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar seats and 194 companies covered 80 per cent of the booths in Raiganj, Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the second phase on April 18. In the first phase, there were reports of booth capturing, smashing of EVMs and intimidation. Similar incidents were reported in the second phase from Chopra in Darjeeling constituency and also from Islampur in Raiganj constituency. There were also reports of damage to the vehicle of sitting CPI-M MP Mohammed Salim at Raiganj. Nayak said no negligence was found after scrutiny of the pollings in the first phase and there will be no repoll in the constituencies where voting was held on the day. The special observer, however, did not dismiss chances of repolling in some booths where polling was held in the second phase. TMC secretary general Subrata Bakshi wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora demanding the immediate removal of Nayak to ensure free and fair polls in the state. "The Election Commission after two phases of polling had said, barring a few incidents the polling was peaceful. Nayak's comments are highly misplaced. He is acting in a partisan manner with pre-conceived notions to destabilise elections in the state and create a fear psychosis among voters," Bakshi said in the letter. Nayak has political and organisational allegiance to the RSS and is connected to BJP leaders. His statements clearly indicate that he has acted as per instructions of his political bosses, he said. "It is therefore requested to immediately recall him or cancel his appointment as a special observer in the state of West Bengal to ensure free and fair elections," Bakshi said. The EC has appointed Vivek Dubey as the special police observer for the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal. Meanwhile, the EC has transferred Malda district Superintendent of Police Arnab Ghosh and has brought in the commanding officer of the second battalion of state armed police Ajoy Prasad in his place. Sources said Ghosh, who was reportedly close to the Trinamool Congress administration, was under the EC scanner. The state BJP had urged the EC to remove Ghosh a few days ago.

Situation in Bengal like Bihar 15 years ago: Election Commission special observer; TMC demands his removal

Violence marred the second phase of elections held in West Bengal's Raiganj on Thursday as BJP`s Raiganj Parliamentary constituency candidate Debasree Chaudhuri alleged that TMC workers tried to capture a polling booth in the constituency.

Meanwhile, police had to resort to lathi-charge and tear-gas to clear the blockade at Chopra which falls under Darjeeling parliamentary constituency.

"TMC workers were trying to capture booth. They were campaigning among Muslims there. This isn`t election campaign," Debasree alleged.

She also claimed that TMC workers tried to capture booth at Raiganj Coronation High School.

In Chopra, security personnel lobbed tear gas shells and resorted to lathi charge on locals as they blocked NH-34 in protest after unknown miscreants allegedly prevented them from casting their votes at Digirpar polling booth.

A local, Sujit Kumar, said that people were stopped by few miscreants from reaching their respective polling booths and the unscrupulous elements allegedly also snatched their EPIC cards or voter I-cards.

"While voters were on their way to polling booths some persons have beaten them and snatched their EPIC card and make them run away. We want peace," said Kumar.

Bangladeshi star Ferdous Ahmed, along with a few Indian actors, allegedly campaigned for TMC`s Raiganj candidate Kanhaiyalal Agarwal in the ongoing elections.

The government subsequently blacklisted Ahmed from campaigning, cancelled his business visa and asked him to leave India.

Polling is underway at three constituencies in West Bengal, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, and Raiganj today in the second phase of general elections.

On April 11, Coochbehar and Alipurduar went to the polls. While in phase 3 on April 23, 5 Lok Sabha constituencies will go for polls, 8 Lok Sabha seats in phase 4 on April 29, while 7, 8 and 9 parliamentary constituencies will vote on May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively.

There are 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal.95 parliamentary constituencies spread across 11 states and a Union Territory will go to polls today.

Polling is being held in Lok Sabha constituencies of Assam (5), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (3), Jammu and Kashmir (2), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (10), Manipur (1), Odisha (5), Tamil Nadu (38), Uttar Pradesh (8), West Bengal (3), and a single parliamentary seat of Puducherry.

Violence marred the second phase of elections held in West Bengal's Raiganj on Thursday as BJP`s Raiganj Parliamentary constituency candidate Debasree Chaudhuri alleged that TMC workers tried to capture a polling booth in the constituency.

Violence marred the second phase of elections held in West Bengal's Raiganj on Thursday as BJP`s Raiganj Parliamentary constituency candidate Debasree Chaudhuri alleged that TMC workers tried to capture a polling booth in the constituency. Meanwhile, police had to resort to lathi-charge and tear-gas to clear the blockade at Chopra which falls under Darjeeling parliamentary constituency. "TMC workers were trying to capture booth. They were campaigning among Muslims there. This isn`t election campaign," Debasree alleged. She also claimed that TMC workers tried to capture booth at Raiganj Coronation High School. In Chopra, security personnel lobbed tear gas shells and resorted to lathi charge on locals as they blocked NH-34 in protest after unknown miscreants allegedly prevented them from casting their votes at Digirpar polling booth. A local, Sujit Kumar, said that people were stopped by few miscreants from reaching their respective polling booths and the unscrupulous elements allegedly also snatched their EPIC cards or voter I-cards. "While voters were on their way to polling booths some persons have beaten them and snatched their EPIC card and make them run away. We want peace," said Kumar. Bangladeshi star Ferdous Ahmed, along with a few Indian actors, allegedly campaigned for TMC`s Raiganj candidate Kanhaiyalal Agarwal in the ongoing elections. The government subsequently blacklisted Ahmed from campaigning, cancelled his business visa and asked him to leave India. Polling is underway at three constituencies in West Bengal, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, and Raiganj today in the second phase of general elections. On April 11, Coochbehar and Alipurduar went to the polls. While in phase 3 on April 23, 5 Lok Sabha constituencies will go for polls, 8 Lok Sabha seats in phase 4 on April 29, while 7, 8 and 9 parliamentary constituencies will vote on May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively. There are 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal.95 parliamentary constituencies spread across 11 states and a Union Territory will go to polls today. Polling is being held in Lok Sabha constituencies of Assam (5), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (3), Jammu and Kashmir (2), Karnataka (14), Maharashtra (10), Manipur (1), Odisha (5), Tamil Nadu (38), Uttar Pradesh (8), West Bengal (3), and a single parliamentary seat of Puducherry.

West Bengal: Violence mars polling at Raiganj, Chopra

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Ferdous Ahmed was seen seeking votes for TMC candidate Kanhaiyalal Agarwal, and participated in rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi. It has been asked to send a detailed report on whether Ahmed, who is in India on a business visa, has violated visa conditions by allegedly participating in campaigning.

BJP: Mamata Banerjee's TMC violates poll code of conduct

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladeshi-actor-ferdous-ahmed-campaigns-for-tmc-in-west-bengal-bjp-alleges-code-violation-210619">Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed campaigning for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal</a>.&nbsp;

The move comes following reports that Bangladeshi star Ferdous Ahmed, along with a few Indian actors, allegedly took part in campaigning for TMC's Raiganj candidate Kanhaiyalal Agarwal.

The Foreigner Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) Kolkata has been asked to send a detailed report whether Ahmed has violated visa conditions by allegedly participating in the Lok Sabha poll campaigning, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous campaigning for TMC in West Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/9uj22bZvEn">pic.twitter.com/9uj22bZvEn</a>
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Ahmed is said to be visiting India on a Business Visa.

The Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for Agarwal at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border.

The FRRO is responsible for providing visa services in the area under its jurisdiction.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday took notice of the incident and had raised the issue of Model Code of Conduct violation.&nbsp;

The BJP moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed campaigning for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal.

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed campaigning for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. The move comes following reports that Bangladeshi star Ferdous Ahmed, along with a few Indian actors, allegedly took part in campaigning for TMC's Raiganj candidate Kanhaiyalal Agarwal. The Foreigner Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) Kolkata has been asked to send a detailed report whether Ahmed has violated visa conditions by allegedly participating in the Lok Sabha poll campaigning, news agency PTI reported. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked for a report from Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous campaigning for TMC in West Bengal. pic.twitter.com/9uj22bZvEn — ANI (@ANI) April 16, 2019 × Ahmed is said to be visiting India on a Business Visa. The Bangladeshi film star was reportedly seen seeking votes for Agarwal at campaign rallies across Hemtabad and Karandighi near the Indo-Bangladesh border. The FRRO is responsible for providing visa services in the area under its jurisdiction. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday took notice of the incident and had raised the issue of Model Code of Conduct violation. The BJP moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed. (With inputs from PTI)

Centre seeks report on Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed's campaign for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday.

Ahmed participated in a roadshow, accompanied by Bengali Tollywood actors Ankush and Payal from Karandighi to Islampur through the Bengal-to-Bengal road.

After road show, Ahmed took the stage for Trinamool Congress’ election campaign and said, “All should vote for the Trinamool Congress. All should vote for didi.”

Meanwhile, the Bhartiya Janta Party has moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed.

“This is illegal. This is a violation of the MCC. This proves Trinamool Congress’ love for Bangladeshis. They want to consolidate minority votes in this constituency by inviting Bangladeshi actors to campaign for them. We have moved Election Commission demanding action against the Trinamool Congress,” said BJP leader Pratap Banerjee.

On the other hand, the Election Commission communicated to this correspondent that they have received a complaint and are looking into it.

However, Trinamool Congress has maintained that there was nothing wrong in roping in the Bangladeshi actor for the campaign.&nbsp;

“Our contribution for Bangladesh in the 1971 Liberation War has been immense. And I do not feel that we have done anything wrong by inviting Ferdous to campaign for us here. We will not do anything that is anti-national, illegal or violates the Model Code of Conduct. If the commission takes action against us, they must also take action against BJP candidates and leaders flashing arms and swords on Ramnavami during the election period,” said former Trinamool Congress minister Madan Mitra.

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday.

In a major controversy, Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning in favour of the Trinamool Congress candidate from Raiganj constituency Kanhaiyalal Agarwal on Sunday. Ahmed participated in a roadshow, accompanied by Bengali Tollywood actors Ankush and Payal from Karandighi to Islampur through the Bengal-to-Bengal road. After road show, Ahmed took the stage for Trinamool Congress’ election campaign and said, “All should vote for the Trinamool Congress. All should vote for didi.” Meanwhile, the Bhartiya Janta Party has moved the Election Commission and filed a complaint against the Trinamool Congress. BJP claimed that participation of a foreign national in an election campaign is a sheer violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). BJP also claimed that the Trinamool Congress was trying to consolidate minority votes in the Raiganj seat by roping in a famous Bangladeshi actor - Ahmed. “This is illegal. This is a violation of the MCC. This proves Trinamool Congress’ love for Bangladeshis. They want to consolidate minority votes in this constituency by inviting Bangladeshi actors to campaign for them. We have moved Election Commission demanding action against the Trinamool Congress,” said BJP leader Pratap Banerjee. On the other hand, the Election Commission communicated to this correspondent that they have received a complaint and are looking into it. However, Trinamool Congress has maintained that there was nothing wrong in roping in the Bangladeshi actor for the campaign. “Our contribution for Bangladesh in the 1971 Liberation War has been immense. And I do not feel that we have done anything wrong by inviting Ferdous to campaign for us here. We will not do anything that is anti-national, illegal or violates the Model Code of Conduct. If the commission takes action against us, they must also take action against BJP candidates and leaders flashing arms and swords on Ramnavami during the election period,” said former Trinamool Congress minister Madan Mitra.

Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed campaigns for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal; BJP alleges code violation

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

"I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal.

"I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed.

Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal."

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said.

Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority."

"Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said.

She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler."

The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must. "I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal. "I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed. Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal." The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said. Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority." "Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said. She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler." The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.

I can contest from anywhere but don't want division of votes: Mamata Banerjee

Darjeeling, enclosed in the hills was one of the favourite destinations of famous writer Mark Twain when he visited in 1896. The famous writer of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Swayer fame described his journey in the "toy train" in glowing terms.

The hilly enclosure has now hit the headlines again as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/after-2019-lok-sabha-elections-the-kingmakers-are-likely-to-be-from-the-south-209566">TMC and BJP square off</a> against each other on April 18th in the second phase of elections in West Bengal.

BJP had won the 2009 and 2014 parliamentary elections from Darjeeling after Jaswant Singh and Surinder Singh Ahluwalia held out a challenge from the Opposition TMC in the area.

The hill town had hit the headlines in 2017 during the Gorkhaland agitation when it undertook a&nbsp;104-day strike to press from an independent state. The agitation has now ebbed away with only remnants remaining.

This time the BJP has fielded ex-Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) leader Raju Singh Bista against TMC's Amar Singh Rai. Bisht has the support of GNLF and Bimal Gurung faction of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) making him a hot favourite to clinch a third term for the party, however, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee is leaving no stone unturned to win back the seat which it hasn't won so far ever since its inception in 1998.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had addressed a poll rally in Darjeeling as she took on the BJP head on lashing out at party president Amit Shah saying, “Dilli se aaya, halwa khake chala gaya (he came from Delhi, ate sweets and went away).”

“You help me win and we will capture Delhi. The TMC will form the next government in Delhi. We will win all of 42 seats,” the West Bengal chief minister told the people present at the rally.

The ethnically diverse West Bengal constituency is dominated by Lepcha, Tamang and other minorities who are now eager for development after years of agitation and confusion.

Both the TMC and BJP have pitched for basic amenities including minimum wage for tea workers who form a major chunk of the vote bank in the area.

Amit Shah in his poll rally in Kalimpong emphasised the importance of the National Register of Citizens(NRC) and the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

“We have promised in our manifesto that once Narendra Modi forms the government again, we will implement the NRC across the country. We will remove every single infiltrator from the country,” the BJP president said, adding,"Didi (Mamata Banerjee) keeps telling that Gorkhas will be inconvenienced once the NRC is in place. These are lies. And no one can question them (Gorkhas) on their citizenship."

“Only those who have faced religious persecution will be granted citizenship,” he asserted.

Darjeeling has become a sort of ego tussle for the BJP and the ruling TMC with both not ready to give an inch.

The area which is strategically located on the Nepal, Bhutan and China border has become an important beachhead for the BJP in its attempt capture the state, a scenario which Mamata's TMC is bent on resisting.

Another BJP victory here would come as&nbsp;a major setback for the TMC, however, as polling day nears it could be anybody's game.

Darjeeling, enclosed in the hills was one of the favourite destinations of famous writer Mark Twain when he visited in 1896. The famous writer of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Swayer fame described his journey in the "toy train" in glowing terms.

Darjeeling, enclosed in the hills was one of the favourite destinations of famous writer Mark Twain when he visited in 1896. The famous writer of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Swayer fame described his journey in the "toy train" in glowing terms. The hilly enclosure has now hit the headlines again as TMC and BJP square off against each other on April 18th in the second phase of elections in West Bengal. BJP had won the 2009 and 2014 parliamentary elections from Darjeeling after Jaswant Singh and Surinder Singh Ahluwalia held out a challenge from the Opposition TMC in the area. The hill town had hit the headlines in 2017 during the Gorkhaland agitation when it undertook a 104-day strike to press from an independent state. The agitation has now ebbed away with only remnants remaining. This time the BJP has fielded ex-Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) leader Raju Singh Bista against TMC's Amar Singh Rai. Bisht has the support of GNLF and Bimal Gurung faction of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) making him a hot favourite to clinch a third term for the party, however, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee is leaving no stone unturned to win back the seat which it hasn't won so far ever since its inception in 1998. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had addressed a poll rally in Darjeeling as she took on the BJP head on lashing out at party president Amit Shah saying, “Dilli se aaya, halwa khake chala gaya (he came from Delhi, ate sweets and went away).” “You help me win and we will capture Delhi. The TMC will form the next government in Delhi. We will win all of 42 seats,” the West Bengal chief minister told the people present at the rally. The ethnically diverse West Bengal constituency is dominated by Lepcha, Tamang and other minorities who are now eager for development after years of agitation and confusion. Both the TMC and BJP have pitched for basic amenities including minimum wage for tea workers who form a major chunk of the vote bank in the area. Amit Shah in his poll rally in Kalimpong emphasised the importance of the National Register of Citizens(NRC) and the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. “We have promised in our manifesto that once Narendra Modi forms the government again, we will implement the NRC across the country. We will remove every single infiltrator from the country,” the BJP president said, adding,"Didi (Mamata Banerjee) keeps telling that Gorkhas will be inconvenienced once the NRC is in place. These are lies. And no one can question them (Gorkhas) on their citizenship." “Only those who have faced religious persecution will be granted citizenship,” he asserted. Darjeeling has become a sort of ego tussle for the BJP and the ruling TMC with both not ready to give an inch. The area which is strategically located on the Nepal, Bhutan and China border has become an important beachhead for the BJP in its attempt capture the state, a scenario which Mamata's TMC is bent on resisting. Another BJP victory here would come as a major setback for the TMC, however, as polling day nears it could be anybody's game.

Second phase polls: BJP, TMC eye Darjeeling in West Bengal battle

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta. The party termed the order 'arbitrary, biased and motivated.'

The letter reads, "We, TMC would like to raise a strong protest against the order issued by the ECI no 434/WB/HP/2019 dated 9th April 2019 transferring the SP Coochbehar just before 48 hours of the date of poll in Coochbehar Parliamentary Constituency."&nbsp;

"The decision taken by the Election Commission of India to transfer the SP Coochbehar Mr Abhishek Gupta just two days before the date of the election is arbitrary, motivated and biased. From the events unfolded in the recent past, it is amply clear that such order of transfer has been passed at the behest of the ruling party at the Centre i.e. BJP, its national leaders, as well as its local representatives in West Bengal, especially in view of the statements issued by its leaders during the recent election meeting held at Coochbehar in respect whereof a complaint has already been submitted to you on April 7, in respect whereof no action, has been taken by the ECI," adds the letter.&nbsp;

According to sources in the EC, the Coochbehar SP was transferred amidst allegations of inaction by opposition parties. BJP senior leader Mukul Roy had claimed that they were prevented from erecting the stage at Rash Mela Grounds in Coochbehar district where the Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a public meeting last Sunday. Four days back, the EC transferred two top cops - Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh after the duo was reportedly seen at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's dharna.&nbsp;

Dr Rajesh Kumar was posted as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner and NR Babu was posted as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner.&nbsp;

Two other district SPs - Birbhum and Diamond Harbour - were transferred too.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the transfer order of Superintendent of Police (SP) of Coochbehar district, Abhishek Gupta. The party termed the order 'arbitrary, biased and motivated.' The letter reads, "We, TMC would like to raise a strong protest against the order issued by the ECI no 434/WB/HP/2019 dated 9th April 2019 transferring the SP Coochbehar just before 48 hours of the date of poll in Coochbehar Parliamentary Constituency." "The decision taken by the Election Commission of India to transfer the SP Coochbehar Mr Abhishek Gupta just two days before the date of the election is arbitrary, motivated and biased. From the events unfolded in the recent past, it is amply clear that such order of transfer has been passed at the behest of the ruling party at the Centre i.e. BJP, its national leaders, as well as its local representatives in West Bengal, especially in view of the statements issued by its leaders during the recent election meeting held at Coochbehar in respect whereof a complaint has already been submitted to you on April 7, in respect whereof no action, has been taken by the ECI," adds the letter. According to sources in the EC, the Coochbehar SP was transferred amidst allegations of inaction by opposition parties. BJP senior leader Mukul Roy had claimed that they were prevented from erecting the stage at Rash Mela Grounds in Coochbehar district where the Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a public meeting last Sunday. Four days back, the EC transferred two top cops - Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma and Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Gyanwant Singh after the duo was reportedly seen at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's dharna. Dr Rajesh Kumar was posted as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner and NR Babu was posted as the new Bidhannagar Police Commissioner. Two other district SPs - Birbhum and Diamond Harbour - were transferred too.

TMC writes to Election Commission, terms transfer order of SP Coochbehar as arbitrary, biased and motivated

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power.

“We give equal respect to all religions in the country. But Mamata didi gives a monthly stipend to Imams only. But the same monthly stipend is not given to the pandits. This is minority appeasement. She forcibly imposes Urdu language in schools. She alloted Rs 4,000 crore budget to Madrasa but the entire higher education budget is less than 4,000 crore depriving children of becoming engineers and doctors,” Shah said during a campaign rally in Alipurduar district of Bengal.

He added that if voted to power, the party will implement the NRC in the state. “We are going to implement the NRC in West Bengal and kick out all infiltrators. I want to assure all refugees that we will give you shelter through the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Mamata ji wants to kick out the refugees but we will not allow that,” added Shah.

The BJP national president once again raised the issue of the Rath Yatra permission being denied by the authorities and claimed that democracy does not prevail in the state.

“When we were to take out the Rath Yatra we were not given permission. Helicopter’s permission was denied to me, Rajnath Singh ji and Yogi Adityanath ji. Mamata ji doesn't allow villagers to cast their vote. I want to tell everyone that TMC's time is up and we are confident of getting 23 seats here,” he said.

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power.

The Bhartiya Janta Party's national president Amit Shah launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday and claimed that the party will implement NRC in Bengal if voted to power. “We give equal respect to all religions in the country. But Mamata didi gives a monthly stipend to Imams only. But the same monthly stipend is not given to the pandits. This is minority appeasement. She forcibly imposes Urdu language in schools. She alloted Rs 4,000 crore budget to Madrasa but the entire higher education budget is less than 4,000 crore depriving children of becoming engineers and doctors,” Shah said during a campaign rally in Alipurduar district of Bengal. He added that if voted to power, the party will implement the NRC in the state. “We are going to implement the NRC in West Bengal and kick out all infiltrators. I want to assure all refugees that we will give you shelter through the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Mamata ji wants to kick out the refugees but we will not allow that,” added Shah. The BJP national president once again raised the issue of the Rath Yatra permission being denied by the authorities and claimed that democracy does not prevail in the state. “When we were to take out the Rath Yatra we were not given permission. Helicopter’s permission was denied to me, Rajnath Singh ji and Yogi Adityanath ji. Mamata ji doesn't allow villagers to cast their vote. I want to tell everyone that TMC's time is up and we are confident of getting 23 seats here,” he said.

Lok Sabha polls: 'TMC's time is up, will implement NRC in state if voted to power,' says Amit Shah in Bengal

The Supreme Court Tuesday termed as “very, very serious” the revelations made by CBI in its fresh status report relating to the recent interrogation of the then Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-probe-sc-directs-cbi-to-file-affidavit-detailing-contempt-by-bengal-cops-200083">Saradha chit fund case</a>.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it cannot “close its eyes” if some “very, very serious facts” are disclosed to it and directed CBI to file an application seeking appropriate relief against Kumar, who had earlier headed the state SIT on the chit fund case.

The bench, which also comprised Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, granted 10 days to the probe agency for filing the application.

Kumar and others can respond to the plea seven days thereafter.

Supreme Court said that as the CBI’s status report was filed in a sealed cover, it cannot pass any order at the moment without hearing the other side.

The apex court was hearing the CBI’ contempt application against various senior officials of the West Bengal government including state’s DGP and then Kolkata police chief on the ground of non-cooperation in its probe and alleged destruction of evidence.

The Supreme Court Tuesday termed as “very, very serious” the revelations made by CBI in its fresh status report relating to the recent interrogation of the then Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with the Saradha chit fund case.

The Supreme Court Tuesday termed as “very, very serious” the revelations made by CBI in its fresh status report relating to the recent interrogation of the then Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar in connection with the Saradha chit fund case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it cannot “close its eyes” if some “very, very serious facts” are disclosed to it and directed CBI to file an application seeking appropriate relief against Kumar, who had earlier headed the state SIT on the chit fund case. The bench, which also comprised Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, granted 10 days to the probe agency for filing the application. Kumar and others can respond to the plea seven days thereafter. Supreme Court said that as the CBI’s status report was filed in a sealed cover, it cannot pass any order at the moment without hearing the other side. The apex court was hearing the CBI’ contempt application against various senior officials of the West Bengal government including state’s DGP and then Kolkata police chief on the ground of non-cooperation in its probe and alleged destruction of evidence.

Saradha chit fund case: Supreme Court says can’t close eyes to ‘very, very serious’ facts in CBI status report

Twenty-one years after officially separating from the Congress, Mamata Banerjee-led TMC has removed the grand old party's name from its logo.

The new logo has Trinamool written in green with twin flowers and blue background. It has been in use for a week now, party sources said.

It was way back in 1998 that present West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee broke away from the Congress and formed the TMC over differences of opinion on dealing with the then ruling CPI(M).

"TMC is called Trinamool and after 21 years, it was time for change," a party leader said.

The Congress name has been dropped from party banners, posters and all communication material.

However, it will remain registered with the Election Commission as Trinamool Congress, party sources said.

The official Facebook and Twitter pages of the party, the CM, her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, and Trinamool's leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O Brien already have the new logo.&nbsp;

Twenty-one years after officially separating from the Congress, Mamata Banerjee-led TMC has removed the grand old party's name from its logo. The new logo has Trinamool written in green with twin flowers and blue background.

Twenty-one years after officially separating from the Congress, Mamata Banerjee-led TMC has removed the grand old party's name from its logo. The new logo has Trinamool written in green with twin flowers and blue background. It has been in use for a week now, party sources said. It was way back in 1998 that present West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee broke away from the Congress and formed the TMC over differences of opinion on dealing with the then ruling CPI(M). "TMC is called Trinamool and after 21 years, it was time for change," a party leader said. The Congress name has been dropped from party banners, posters and all communication material. However, it will remain registered with the Election Commission as Trinamool Congress, party sources said. The official Facebook and Twitter pages of the party, the CM, her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, and Trinamool's leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O Brien already have the new logo.

TMC removes Congress's name from its logo

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards.

Tiwari, while conducting an election committee meeting in Asansol, West Bengal&nbsp;in presence of Sen, promised contracts worth Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 lakh to the party councillors depending on the number of votes polled in favour of the TMC LS candidate.&nbsp;

"If you are able to get a lead of more than 5,000 votes in your ward, I promise you to give contracts worth Rs 1 crore, if you manage to get a lead of 3,000 votes, you will get contracts worth Rs 50 lakh. If you manage a lead of 2,000 and 1,000 votes, you will be given contracts worth Rs 25 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively," he said.

The Asansol mayor also said if any councillor failed to ensure a lead of votes, he or she should resign from the post.

"If I fail to give a lead from my ward, I will also resign," he said.

Commenting on the statement, Union minister and BJP candidate from the seat Babul Supriyo said the remarks reflect the TMC culture and how the party conducts elections in the state.

"It shows their culture. I would urge the Election Commission to take note of it and take steps accordingly. It shows how TMC is trying to use money power in the elections," he said.

Senior TMC leader and state Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim, however, came to Tiwari's defence and said he was encouraging councillors to work hard in the elections.&nbsp;

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards.

Asansol Mayor and TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari courted controversy on Tuesday after he promised party councillors with contracts worth lakhs of rupees if they ensured victory of TMC Lok Sabha candidate Moon Moon Sen from their respective wards. Tiwari, while conducting an election committee meeting in Asansol, West Bengal in presence of Sen, promised contracts worth Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 lakh to the party councillors depending on the number of votes polled in favour of the TMC LS candidate. "If you are able to get a lead of more than 5,000 votes in your ward, I promise you to give contracts worth Rs 1 crore, if you manage to get a lead of 3,000 votes, you will get contracts worth Rs 50 lakh. If you manage a lead of 2,000 and 1,000 votes, you will be given contracts worth Rs 25 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively," he said. The Asansol mayor also said if any councillor failed to ensure a lead of votes, he or she should resign from the post. "If I fail to give a lead from my ward, I will also resign," he said. Commenting on the statement, Union minister and BJP candidate from the seat Babul Supriyo said the remarks reflect the TMC culture and how the party conducts elections in the state. "It shows their culture. I would urge the Election Commission to take note of it and take steps accordingly. It shows how TMC is trying to use money power in the elections," he said. Senior TMC leader and state Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim, however, came to Tiwari's defence and said he was encouraging councillors to work hard in the elections.

Lok Sabha 2019: TMC MLA promises contracts if councillors ensure victory of party candidate

India Election Watch: Congress to contest alone in West Bengal

Continuing with her penchant for bringing in silver screen personalities to politics, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has fielded five film stars, including two greenhorns, for the coming Lok Sabha elections. In the 2014 general elections, Banerjee had fielded the same number of cinestars and all the five had won.&nbsp;

It was Banerjee who had in 2009 started the practice of fielding people from the glamour world in West Bengal elections, which was considered to be the forte of southern states. Of the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal, the TMC had won 19 seats in 2009 and 34 in 2014.

The party also adds a dash of colour to major public meetings, where celebrities from the film and television world assemble. Fielding of Mimi Chakraborty, a popular actress in Bengali cinema and a political greenhorn, from the prestigious Jadavpur constituency for the 2019 elections has come as a surprise to many. It was from this constituency in the city that Mamata Banerjee had burst into electoral politics in 1984 as a young Congress candidate, by handing a stunning defeat to the incumbent and towering Somnath Chatterjee of the CPI(M).

Sugata Bose, a professor of Oceanic History and Affairs at the Harvard University held the seat as a TMC MP in the outgoing 16th Lok Sabha. Reportedly, he has not been given permission by the university to contest the elections this time. Another political greenhorn and Bengali film actor Nusrat Jahan has been fielded from Basirhat in North 24 Parganas district, a seat now held by TMC’s Idris Ali. Banerjee has said Ali will contest in an Assembly by-election. Apart from these two, actors and sitting MPs Deepak Adhikari, popularly known as Dev, Satabdi Roy and Munmum Sen will also contest.

While Dev and Roy would seek re-election from Ghatal and Birbhum seats respectively, Sen has been shifted from Bankura to Asansol, which was won by singer-turned-politician Babul Supriyo of the BJP. The TMC has dropped sitting MPs Tapas Pal and Sandhya Roy, well-known film stars of yesteryears. Pal had been arrested by the CBI in December 2016 in connection with the Rose Valley chitfund scam and is at present out on bail. Pal and Satabdi Roy are two-time MPs of the TMC, both having earlier won in the 2009 elections. The TMC supremo had also made Bollywood star Mithun Chakraborty a Rajya Sabha MP. But he had resigned in December 2016 citing ill health.

The trend of cine stars joining electoral politics has been a regular affair in the southern states, with former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran as the pioneer and Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan being the latest entrants. Andhra Pradesh is another state where film stars enjoy cult status and have made serious forays into politics, with N T Rama Rao having become chief minister of the state. In other parts of the country, film stars like Raj Babbar, Hema Malini, Vinod Khanna have been in politics and even mega star Amitabh Bachchan had a short tryst with it. Film stars have, however, generally stayed away from electoral politics in West Bengal, where it has traditionally been viewed as a forte of those who grow from the ranks, barring one or two exceptions.

The so-called glass ceiling was broken in 2009 when Satabdi Roy and Tapas Pal, both of whom were doing films regularly then, were fielded by the TMC chief and won. The BJP has also brought in film personalities and those associated with it in West Bengal politics. Babul Supriyo, a playback singer who also dabbled in film acting, was one of the two BJP candidates who won in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from West Bengal. He was also made a minister of state. Actor Roopa Ganguly, who achieved national fame for her portrayal of the role of Draupadi in mega teleserial Mahabharat, is a Rajya Sabha MP of the BJP.

Continuing with her penchant for bringing in silver screen personalities to politics, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has fielded five film stars, including two greenhorns, for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

Continuing with her penchant for bringing in silver screen personalities to politics, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has fielded five film stars, including two greenhorns, for the coming Lok Sabha elections. In the 2014 general elections, Banerjee had fielded the same number of cinestars and all the five had won. It was Banerjee who had in 2009 started the practice of fielding people from the glamour world in West Bengal elections, which was considered to be the forte of southern states. Of the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal, the TMC had won 19 seats in 2009 and 34 in 2014. The party also adds a dash of colour to major public meetings, where celebrities from the film and television world assemble. Fielding of Mimi Chakraborty, a popular actress in Bengali cinema and a political greenhorn, from the prestigious Jadavpur constituency for the 2019 elections has come as a surprise to many. It was from this constituency in the city that Mamata Banerjee had burst into electoral politics in 1984 as a young Congress candidate, by handing a stunning defeat to the incumbent and towering Somnath Chatterjee of the CPI(M). Sugata Bose, a professor of Oceanic History and Affairs at the Harvard University held the seat as a TMC MP in the outgoing 16th Lok Sabha. Reportedly, he has not been given permission by the university to contest the elections this time. Another political greenhorn and Bengali film actor Nusrat Jahan has been fielded from Basirhat in North 24 Parganas district, a seat now held by TMC’s Idris Ali. Banerjee has said Ali will contest in an Assembly by-election. Apart from these two, actors and sitting MPs Deepak Adhikari, popularly known as Dev, Satabdi Roy and Munmum Sen will also contest. While Dev and Roy would seek re-election from Ghatal and Birbhum seats respectively, Sen has been shifted from Bankura to Asansol, which was won by singer-turned-politician Babul Supriyo of the BJP. The TMC has dropped sitting MPs Tapas Pal and Sandhya Roy, well-known film stars of yesteryears. Pal had been arrested by the CBI in December 2016 in connection with the Rose Valley chitfund scam and is at present out on bail. Pal and Satabdi Roy are two-time MPs of the TMC, both having earlier won in the 2009 elections. The TMC supremo had also made Bollywood star Mithun Chakraborty a Rajya Sabha MP. But he had resigned in December 2016 citing ill health. The trend of cine stars joining electoral politics has been a regular affair in the southern states, with former Tamil Nadu chief minister M G Ramachandran as the pioneer and Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan being the latest entrants. Andhra Pradesh is another state where film stars enjoy cult status and have made serious forays into politics, with N T Rama Rao having become chief minister of the state. In other parts of the country, film stars like Raj Babbar, Hema Malini, Vinod Khanna have been in politics and even mega star Amitabh Bachchan had a short tryst with it. Film stars have, however, generally stayed away from electoral politics in West Bengal, where it has traditionally been viewed as a forte of those who grow from the ranks, barring one or two exceptions. The so-called glass ceiling was broken in 2009 when Satabdi Roy and Tapas Pal, both of whom were doing films regularly then, were fielded by the TMC chief and won. The BJP has also brought in film personalities and those associated with it in West Bengal politics. Babul Supriyo, a playback singer who also dabbled in film acting, was one of the two BJP candidates who won in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from West Bengal. He was also made a minister of state. Actor Roopa Ganguly, who achieved national fame for her portrayal of the role of Draupadi in mega teleserial Mahabharat, is a Rajya Sabha MP of the BJP.

Five film stars in TMC’s list as Mamata Banerjee reposes faith in tested poll mantra

By: Kamalika Sengupta 
&nbsp;

This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-tmc-mla-from-krishnaganj-satyajit-biswas-shot-dead-196282">Satyajit Biswas</a> – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles.

The TMC immediately blamed BJP for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-arrested-in-connection-with-tmc-mla-satyajit-biswas-murder-196333">murder and an FIR </a>was also lodged against Mukul Roy – Mamata’s former number two who switched camps.&nbsp;

On the other hand, BJP claims it’s a faction fight over the land syndicate issue.

Interestingly, Satyajit Biswas represented the Matua community, which is being eyed by BJP.&nbsp;

PM Modi came to Thakurnagar to coax that particular voter base.&nbsp;

The TMC claims that Satyajit Biswas was the face of the Matua community, and the cold-blooded killing was a result of Biswas refusing to switch camps and get Matua votes for the BJP.&nbsp;

Gauri Shankar Dutta, TMC’s district president alleged that BJP leaders conspired to kill Biswas as he defeated the BJP candidate twice by a huge margin.

In FIR too Matua popularity of Satyajit has been written and the fact that he became hindrance of BJP was also stressed on.

But BJP nowhere is to buy TMC theory, to them, he used to deal with land this may be the outcome of faction fight on land.

Moreover, Mukul Roy stated, " Please independent agency should investigate into this and truth should come out its there infighting and BJP should not be involved ".

Further to this TMC Matua leader like MP Mamata Thakur reached victims house and staged the protest in Bengal portraying that BJP killed a Matua.

Matua community is a sect of Vaishnavite Hinduism, which originated from present-day Bangladesh.

By: Kamalika Sengupta This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – Satyajit Biswas – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles.

By: Kamalika Sengupta This was the first time under TMC rule that a sitting MLA – Satyajit Biswas – was shot dead. The incident took place in Krishnagunj of Nadia district on Sunday has shaken political circles. The TMC immediately blamed BJP for the murder and an FIR was also lodged against Mukul Roy – Mamata’s former number two who switched camps. On the other hand, BJP claims it’s a faction fight over the land syndicate issue. Interestingly, Satyajit Biswas represented the Matua community, which is being eyed by BJP. PM Modi came to Thakurnagar to coax that particular voter base. The TMC claims that Satyajit Biswas was the face of the Matua community, and the cold-blooded killing was a result of Biswas refusing to switch camps and get Matua votes for the BJP. Gauri Shankar Dutta, TMC’s district president alleged that BJP leaders conspired to kill Biswas as he defeated the BJP candidate twice by a huge margin. In FIR too Matua popularity of Satyajit has been written and the fact that he became hindrance of BJP was also stressed on. But BJP nowhere is to buy TMC theory, to them, he used to deal with land this may be the outcome of faction fight on land. Moreover, Mukul Roy stated, " Please independent agency should investigate into this and truth should come out its there infighting and BJP should not be involved ". Further to this TMC Matua leader like MP Mamata Thakur reached victims house and staged the protest in Bengal portraying that BJP killed a Matua. Matua community is a sect of Vaishnavite Hinduism, which originated from present-day Bangladesh.

Matua sect vote or faction fight – what led to TMC MLA Satyajit Biswas’s murder?

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