West Bengal polls 2016: Left candidate, journalists targeted

Kolkata, April 4: Left candidate in Shalboni in West Midnapore district of West Bengal Shyam Pandey was allegedly heckled while representatives of the media were also assaulted during the first phase of the state's Assembly election on Monday (April 4).

The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) was accused of targeting the Opposition and media.

Pandey repeatedly complained to the Election Commission (EC) about reports of booth capturing in the constituency but alleged that no steps were taken. Pandey was keeping a track on various booths in the constituency and he was accompanied by media personnel.

When Pandey and his team reached Metadaha booth, he was allegedly targeted by supporters of the TMC. He was not allowed to enter the booth and when he went to other booths, he faced the same resistance. At an area called Andharnayan, he was gheraoed and heckled.

When the journalists tried to cover the incident, they also faced the wrath and their cameras were snatched. They were detained for some time before being set free. One journalist reportedly had a broken hand because of the attack.

It was also alleged that the central forces did not come to the rescue of the victims despite repeated plea for help. The district magistrate of West Midnapore was asked to take stock of the situation.

Oneindia News