Trinamool Congress Leader Arrested for Voter Intimidation in Bengal
Synopsis
In a significant political development, a Trinamool Congress leader has been arrested in South 24 Parganas for allegedly threatening voters ahead of the upcoming state Assembly elections. This incident follows a similar arrest in Berhampore, showcasing escalating tensions in the electoral landscape.
Key Takeaways
Hafizul Mollah was arrested for threatening voters in South 24 Parganas.
The incident follows another arrest in Berhampore for similar allegations.
The Election Commission has mandated legal action against Mollah.
A viral video has amplified the controversy surrounding his comments.
The BJP has criticized the Trinamool Congress for its inaction against intimidation.
Kolkata, April 4 (NationPress) In a recent incident following the arrest of a Trinamool Congress leader in Berhampore, another member of the party was detained in Canning, located in South 24 Parganas district. This action was taken under the directives of the Election Commission of India (ECI) due to his threatening remarks directed towards voters as the state Assembly elections approach.
An ECI official reported that Hafizul Mollah, a Trinamool Congress leader and Chief of Deuli-1 Gram Panchayat in South 24 Parganas, made intimidating statements to voters.
During a party meeting in Jibantala, Mollah allegedly declared: "After the vote counting, the 'steam roller' will keep rolling."
The ECI ordered Mollah's arrest following these comments, prompting police action in compliance with the Commission's directive.
The police have been instructed to initiate necessary legal proceedings against the Trinamool Congress leader.
A video capturing Mollah's controversial speech has circulated widely on social media, wherein he can be heard stating, "Voting for the West Bengal elections will occur on April 29, with vote counting on May 4. We declare openly that the 'steam roller' will be utilized against those who betray us and vote contrary to our party from the evening of the counting. Winning this battle is essential for us."
Previously, on the ECI's orders, law enforcement arrested Raju Mandal, President of the Ward 8 Trinamool Congress committee in Berhampore, for similar voter intimidation allegations.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned the Trinamool Congress-led state government for failing to act against such leaders within their ranks.
BJP officials remarked, "A Trinamool leader from South 24 Parganas has threatened to crush the common people with a 'steamroller' once the electoral results are announced. The Trinamool is left with nothing but intimidation, aware that the populace of West Bengal will no longer accept such tactics."
They further emphasized, "Trinamool Congress understands that the people of West Bengal will no longer tolerate corruption and appeasement politics. They know that the citizens of Bengal are prepared to endorse a double-engine government."
Point of View
The recent arrest of a Trinamool Congress leader for threatening voters highlights the increasing tensions and potential electoral misconduct in West Bengal. As the elections draw near, such incidents raise concerns about the fairness of the electoral process and the measures taken to uphold democratic values.
NationPress
21 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in South 24 Parganas?
Hafizul Mollah, a Trinamool Congress leader and Head of Deuli-1 Gram Panchayat, was arrested for threatening voters.
What did Hafizul Mollah say?
He stated that a 'steam roller' would be used against those who betray the party after the vote counting.
What actions did the Election Commission take?
The Election Commission ordered Mollah's arrest and directed police to take legal action against him.
Why has the BJP criticized the Trinamool Congress?
The BJP condemned the Trinamool Congress for failing to act against leaders who intimidate voters.
