Howrah, 06 April (H.S.)

Tension flared up in West Bengal’s Howrah on Monday as supporters of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) clashed near the Old Collectorate building over nomination filing.

Police and central forces were deployed at the spot to bring the situation under control. The Rapid Action Force (RAF) was also pressed into service as a precautionary measure.

Earlier in the day, a procession of CPM workers marched from in front of Howrah Maidan Metro station. Around the same time, a separate rally by TMC supporters reached the area. As the two groups came face-to-face near the Old Collectorate, slogan-shouting began from both sides.

According to allegations, CPM supporters raised slogans such as “chor-chor” and “Trinamool dur hato.” In response, TMC supporters countered with slogans of “Jai Bangla.”

TMC alleged that its supporters had arrived from Domjur along with their candidate to file nomination but were not allowed to enter the premises, while CPM workers were permitted entry.

However, CPM denied the claim, stating that only five of its representatives were initially allowed inside, and others were permitted entry later after authorities removed the barricades.

Following the incident, heavy police deployment has been maintained in the area, and the situation is being closely monitored.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey