What’s Happening in Kaliganj Bypoll? Voting Underway Amid Irregularities
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Synopsis
The Kaliganj bypolls are currently underway in West Bengal, highlighting a tense political atmosphere. Reports of irregularities have surfaced despite a strong security presence. With significant stakes for the major parties involved, the outcome will be closely watched, especially given the influence of minority voters.
Key Takeaways
- Polling started at 7 a.m.
- Reports of irregularities have emerged.
- Minority voters hold significant influence.
- The counting of votes is on June 23.
- Security is tight with 14 CAPF companies deployed.
Kolkata, June 19 (NationPress) Voting is currently taking place for the by-elections in the Kaliganj Assembly constituency, located in the Nadia district of West Bengal. This election is part of a larger series of bypolls occurring across four states today.
The voting process in Kaliganj commenced at 7 a.m. Although the first hour has been relatively calm, there have been reports of isolated incidents of irregularities right from the start.
Due to inclement weather, the voter turnout at many polling stations has been notably low thus far. The Congress party has raised concerns regarding booth number 204 in the Anantapur area, claiming that their agent was barred from entering the premises.
In booth number 201, the Congress leadership asserted that their agent was compelled to vacate the booth due to threats. Similarly, the BJP leadership reported experiencing comparable intimidation at booths 21 and 24.
Both the Congress and BJP have accused supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress of orchestrating these irregularities. However, there has been no response from the ruling party regarding these allegations.
The voting in Kaliganj is being conducted under stringent security measures, with 14 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) deployed specifically for this constituency.
The counting of votes is scheduled for June 23.
This bypoll was necessitated by the passing of the former Trinamool Congress legislator, Nasiruddin Ahmed, in February at the age of 70.
The contest in this bypoll is a three-way battle involving the Trinamool Congress, the BJP, and a Congress candidate backed by the CPI(M)-led Left Front.
The Trinamool Congress has nominated Alifa Ahmed, the late legislator's daughter, who aims to surpass her father's winning margin of 46,987 votes from 2021.
For BJP's Ashish Ghosh, the challenge lies in converting the public's growing dissatisfaction into support. His strengths include robust organizational skills and a favorable local image.
The Congress candidate, Kabil Uddin Shaikh, aims to consolidate the dedicated voter bases of both the Congress and the Left Front in Kaliganj.
Political analysts believe that the voting behavior of minority voters, who make up about 60% of the electorate, will heavily influence the outcome in Kaliganj.
“If the minority votes consolidate in favor of the Trinamool Congress, as witnessed in 2021, their candidate is likely to win decisively. However, if Shaikh, a veteran Congressman and minority candidate, can significantly penetrate the minority vote bank, it could spell trouble for the Trinamool Congress candidate,” noted a local political analyst.
Nasiruddin Ahmed first won a seat in Kaliganj during the 2011 West Bengal elections, which marked the end of a 34-year reign by the Left Front and the start of the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government.
Despite losing to Congress' Hasanuzzaman Sheikh in the 2016 elections, Ahmed returned to power in the 2021 Assembly elections.
Point of View
I want to emphasize the importance of unbiased reporting in this politically charged environment. The Kaliganj bypolls not only reflect local sentiments but also the broader political landscape of West Bengal. Our commitment remains to provide accurate and timely information, keeping the public informed and engaged.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main parties contesting in the Kaliganj bypoll?
The main parties contesting in the Kaliganj bypoll include the Trinamool Congress, BJP, and Congress, supported by the CPI(M)-led Left Front.
What is the significance of the Kaliganj bypoll?
The Kaliganj bypoll is significant as it was necessitated by the death of former legislator Nasiruddin Ahmed, highlighting the ongoing political rivalry in West Bengal.
When will the counting of votes take place?
The counting of votes for the Kaliganj bypoll is scheduled for June 23.
How many security personnel are deployed for the bypoll?
A total of 14 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to ensure security during the voting process in Kaliganj.
What role do minority voters play in this election?
Minority voters, constituting around 60% of the electorate, are expected to play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the Kaliganj bypoll.
