Tension broke out in Howrah on Sunday morning during a BJP road show, just days before the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections. The situation turned volatile after a slogan war between supporters of the Trinamool Congress and the BJP. Security forces later intervened to bring the situation under control.
The incident took place in the Liluah B Road area under the North Howrah constituency. BJP leader and actor Ravi Kishan was leading a road show in support of party candidate Umesh Roy when the clash-like situation emerged.
Slogan war triggers tension
According to sources, the road show reached near a Trinamool election office in the area. As the procession passed, Trinamool supporters raised slogans of "Joy Bangla." BJP workers responded with "Jai Shree Ram" slogans. Soon, both sides also raised "chor chor" (thief) slogans against each other.
Also Read | 'Will offer Bardhaman's Sitabhog to PM Modi': Amit Shah predicts BJP victory in Bengal
The exchange of slogans quickly escalated into heated arguments and brief scuffles. Eyewitnesses said the situation became tense within minutes as both groups confronted each other on the road.
Security forces intervene
Central forces present in the area stepped in to control the situation. They moved the crowd back and reportedly raised batons to disperse people. Allegations of a lathi charge have been made, although there was no official confirmation on the extent of force used.
Also Read | Voter intimidation in Diamond Harbour? EC orders probe after viral video
Police and security personnel later brought the situation under control. No major injuries have been reported so far. Surveillance has been increased in the area to prevent further unrest.
The incident comes at a time when campaigning is at its peak ahead of the second phase of voting scheduled for April 29. Campaigning will end at 5 PM on Monday. Political parties have intensified rallies, road shows, and public meetings across the state in the final stretch before polling.
