SILIGURI,: The voting process in the Terai region of Darjeeling constituency concluded peacefully albeit with some incidents. Alleged false voting and clashes between TMC and BJP supporters marred the otherwise peaceful proceedings.
In some booths defects in EVMs lead to long queues, including elderly individuals enduring the scorching heat to cast their votes. New voters showed enthusiasm and said they voted for a better nation by choosing the right candidate.
However, tensions flared at several polling booths. In Phansidewa, TMC cadres protested against BJP candidate Raju Bista’s visit alleging his absence in the area prior to the voting day. Instances of fake voting were reported at Upper Bagdogra Kedernath School and Subhmaya High School.
One Pushpa Sharma has lodged a written complaint at Bagdogra police station stating that when she went to the polling booth, she found that her vote has already been cast by another woman.
Clashes erupted between TMC and BJP supporters in Matigara over allegations of false voting and code of conduct violations. Similar tensions arose at Siliguri Hindi High School after TMC candidates opposed entry of Raju Bista in the booth and a huge police force had to be deployed.
Despite the challenges, TMC candidate Gopal Lama praised the peaceful voting process, while Raju Bista urged voters to exercise their democratic rights for a better India. Bista also highlighted alleged irregularities in Chopra Assembly constituency. “Today, I am sad to report that we have received massive complaints of rigging in Chopra Assembly constituency, and some reports of rigging from parts of hill regions have also come in.”
He said he will approach the Election Commission for potential re-polling with increased security measures.
The Darjeeling constituency has a history of varied electoral outcomes, with BJP securing victories in recent years. In the 2019 elections, Raju Bista won with a significant margin, defeating Amar Singh Rai of AITC.