Bengal polls: focus on Nandigram in Phase-II with 22 companies of Central force

Twenty-two companies of Central paramilitary forces are likely to keep an eye on the Nandigram polls on April 1, in the second phase of Bengal election. Though elections are scheduled in 30 seats in parts of Bankura, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and South 24 Parganas, Nandigram has come into focus for various reasons.

West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee is seeking a third term for herself from Nandigram assembly constituency of East Midnapore. She is fighting against her one-time close aide Suvendu Adhikari, who defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Banerjee is contesting from Nandigram for the first time, instead of her Bhowanipur constituency. This is a prestige fight for both the Trinamool as well as the BJP. The seat is also significant for the Trinamool as this was also the area which saw her fight the then Left Front rule to stall the taking over of farmland for the setting up of a chemical hub.

For the past few days, a huge contingent of state police and Central paramilitary force has been camping in Nandigram. Campaigning for political parties ended in the constituency since Tuesday evening. Outsiders are not allowed in the area after that, other than local voters, candidates (even if not a local voter) and those from the police and journalists with permission from the Election Commission. Outsiders are not allowed to prevent trouble. Police have been conducting checks on vehicles moving in and out of Nandigram. Vigilance is also being done through chopper.

On Tuesday evening, the Election Commission ordered transfer of the sub-divisional police officer of Haldia and the circle inspector of Mahishadal in Purba Midnapore.