The political battle in West Bengal has shifted its focus to the neutrality of the state’s highest election official. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has officially written to the Chief Election Commissioner of India, leveling serious allegations of partiality against West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal.

The controversy erupted following the CEO’s recent visit to Nandigram. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that Agarwal toured the area accompanied by close associates of BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari. TMC leaders Chandrima Bhattacharya and Kunal Ghosh claimed that the CEO was seen with Tapan Kumar Mahapatra, a BJP Area Committee Convener, while visiting households in Hindu-dominated neighborhoods. The party argued that such proximity to the opposition aims at “voter manipulation” and “rigging the polls.”

Refuting the charges, Suvendu Adhikari questioned whether constitutional heads are barred from visiting victims of post-poll violence just because of party affiliations. However, the TMC remains steadfast in its demand, urging the Commission to show-cause the CEO and take immediate legal action to ensure a free and fair election. This direct confrontation between the ruling party and the polling body sets a tense tone for the upcoming electoral phases in Bengal.