Hooghly, 12 April (H.S.): With elections drawing closer, political tensions are escalating across various parts of West Bengal. In this backdrop, a tense situation unfolded on Sunday in Hattala area of Nakunda Gram Panchayat under Goghat-I block, further intensifying the political atmosphere.

According to local sources, Left Front workers and supporters had arrived in the area for a pre-scheduled campaign. At the same time, BJP workers also reached the same place, leading to a direct confrontation between the two groups.

Soon, slogan-shouting began from both sides. While Left supporters raised “Inquilab Zindabad,” BJP workers countered with “Jai Shri Ram,” turning the area into a virtual battleground. The sudden escalation left local residents and shopkeepers alarmed.

Left leaders alleged that they had prior permission from the administration and questioned how another party was allowed to hold a programme at the same place and time. They termed it an administrative lapse.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders rejected the allegations, claiming they too had obtained prior approval and accused the Left Front of creating unnecessary controversy for political gain.

The situation was eventually brought under control following the intervention of the local administration. Although candidates from both sides later exchanged handshakes in a gesture of courtesy, questions remain over administrative coordination in allowing simultaneous programmes at the same venue.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey