The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday alleged that the BJP and Central forces were working together to intimidate voters in West Bengal.
The allegations were echoed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who accused the BJP and Central forces of torturing people.
“After being briefed from BJP headquarters, Central forces are performing an unprecedented role in Bengal. They have now resorted to intimidation and torture. They are mercilessly beating up TMC workers,” TMC spokesperson Derek O’ Brien said in a statement.
In another statement, O’ Brien alleged that the Central forces were “brutally torturing and intimidating” common people.
He also alleged that the jawans of the Central forces were threatening to shoot people if they do not vote for the BJP.
“Today, in Bengal, central forces are brutally torturing and intimidating common citizens, especially the marginalised. Even physically handicapped persons are being tortured. Central forces are also threatening voters Kamal dabao nahin toh thok dega,” stated O’Brien.
He further alleged that the Central forces were getting orders from BJP candidates.
“ Central forces are directly taking orders from BJP candidates and party functionaries, clearly violating the orders of the Election Commission. However, the Election Commission has not taken any action.” said O’Brien.
Speaking to journalists after casting her vote, Mamata said that the torture carried out by the Central forces in Bengal was unprecedented.
“The torture that BJP workers and central forces have carried out today since morning is unprecedented. I have never seen anything like this,” she said.