BJP warns cadres against post-poll violence

MP, May 6, 2026, Kolkata: A day after the BJP secured a historic mandate in the West Bengal Assembly elections, state party president Samik Bhattacharya on Tuesday cautioned workers against any involvement in post-poll violence, warning of strict disciplinary action.

However, despite the appeal and the party’s assertion that it does not believe in the politics of revenge, incidents of violence were reported from several parts of the state since the results were declared on Monday, marring the celebratory mood and casting a shadow over the BJP’s landmark victory.

Bhattacharya said the party would expel anyone found involved.

“I have said it clearly that the BJP will not do what the Trinamool Congress has done. If any BJP worker is found involved in post-poll violence anywhere, the party will expel them,” he said.

He also criticised what he described as excessive deployment of police personnel for the security of political leaders.

“Some were even going to Delhi with 200–250 police personnel. Policemen used to remain standing for hours. This drama was going on. This has not gone down well with the people of Bengal. This is why the margin of Mamata Banerjee has gone up to around 15,000,” he added.

Referring to Banerjee, Bhattacharya said the BJP maintains political differences but avoids personal attacks.

“In Bengal, the Leader of the Opposition was attacked and attempts were made to set his vehicle on fire. He had to approach the High Court 104 times just to hold rallies,” he claimed.

Citing an incident in Rajarhat Gopalpur, he said: “We heard of a Trinamool Congress office being ransacked. Later, it was found that the attackers had no connection with the BJP. If any BJP worker is involved, the police will take action.”

He urged the administration to prevent such incidents.

“Rivalry within the Trinamool was visible in Dumdum, Asansol and Rajarhat Gopalpur, where one group picked up a BJP flag and vandalised another group’s office,” he alleged.

Bhattacharya further accused Trinamool activists of infighting over control of local extortion networks.

“This cannot continue. No rickshaw driver will pay money to anyone. Vendors selling vegetables on roads, even without municipal permission, cannot be forced to pay extortion,” he said.

PTI, May 6, 2026, Kolkata: The Election Commission has directed the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to ensure zero tolerance towards any post-poll violence.