Amidst reports of violence during polling at Chopra under Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat and Islampur and Gwaltore in Raiganj seat, special observers appointed by Election Commission of India to West Bengal said that the polling has "more or less been peaceful" in the State.
Ajai Naik, special general observer and Vivek Dube, the special police observer told journalists that the polling has largely been peaceful.
"Small incidents will always occur but voting has been peaceful," Mr Dube said.
At Chopra’s number 180 booth, locals blocked the road alleging that Trinamool Congress was not allowing them to vote. A large contingent of police forces reached the area and resorted to baton charge and firing of tear gas shells. Voting started after four hours at the polling booth.
Vehicle of the CPI(M) candidate Mohd Salim was attacked at Islampur. The CPI(M) MP blamed Trinamool Congress for the attack.
BJP candidate from Raiganj Deboshree Chaudhuri was also seen having an argument with supporters of other political parties. She said that the party was not informed about all women polling personnel.
Till 1 pm Jalpaiguri had recorded 54.73% polling, Raigunj 52.54% and Darjeeling 47.52%.
