Will take tough measures to prevent violence: EC Spl Observer

With violence spreading across the city and its suburbs on the eve of fifth and final phase of elections in the state, the Election Commission Special Observer for West Bengal Sudhir Kumar Rakesh today said the poll panel has taken all measures to tackle the situation.
A series of incidents of violence have been reported from Belghoria, Cossipore, Beleghata, Behrampur, Barasat, Bijpur and several other places in North 24 Parganas district, amidst the opposition allegation that their supporters were being terrorised by the ruling Trinamool Congress workers.
Rakesh said stern steps were being taken in all cases to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling.

"There is nothing to panic. People must be able to cast their votes without any fear.
"Whatever happened in the city, the EC has taken all possible actions immediately and the City Police Commissioner Surojit Kar Purokayastha has been asked to come out with an official statement," Rakesh told reporters here.
Kar Purokayastha has also been asked to act strictly to thwart any bid to terrorise voters, he said, adding, cases have already been initiated regarding violence at Beleghata and scuffle with police officers at Cossipore.
Seven political workers - four belonging to CPI-M and three to ruling Trinamool Congress - were injured in an incident of violence at Belghoria.

Five persons were arrested in connection with the incident which took place last night when workers of both parties were putting up buntings and flags after campaigning came to an end in the area, police said.