The political turmoil regarding West Bengal elections has intensified. Central Government Minister Kiren Rijiju has made serious allegations against Trinamool Congress (TMC), saying that attempts are being made to “hijack” the elections in the state. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday submitted a detailed petition to the Election Commission (ECI) on this issue.

After meeting Election Commission officials at Nirvachan Sadan, Rijiju said in the press conference, “We have submitted a petition to the Election Commission. This is a very serious petition… Especially in West Bengal, an attempt is being made to completely hijack the elections, capture democracy and deprive people of their right to vote.”

He alleged that an atmosphere of fear and pressure is being created in the state. Rijiju said, “The atmosphere of fear and intimidation that has been created in West Bengal by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress… The Chief Minister herself is going door-to-door threatening the voters that whoever votes for BJP will not be spared.”

Rijiju also accused the administration of misuse. According to him, “Officials from senior to lower level in West Bengal are acting like TMC workers… People are being intimidated even inside their homes.”

He appealed to the Election Commission not to repeat the politics of “bullying and fear” this time. He said, “Elections are an opportunity for people to vote as per their wish… no one can take away this right.”

The Election Commission has responded positively to BJP’s concerns. According to Rijiju, the Commission has assured that necessary steps will be taken to ensure fair and free elections.

Let us tell you that voting for the 294-seat West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases on 23 and 29 April, while the results will come on 4 May. This time’s election is being considered a big test not only of political but also of democratic credibility.