Baranagar turned into a virtual battlefield on Monday night as violent clashes broke out between TMC and BJP supporters. According to BJP candidate Sajal Ghosh, a group of TMC-backed miscreants led by local tough Ajay Gupta attacked BJP workers following a public meeting in Ward No. 7. It is alleged that the attackers used pistol butts to thrash BJP workers, leaving several seriously injured.

Protesting the incident and police inaction, Sajal Ghosh staged a massive sit-in demonstration in front of the Baranagar Police Station. During the protest, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal personally called Sajal Ghosh to discuss the situation. Ghosh urged the CEO to “save Bengal,” to which Agarwal assured strict action against the culprits and promised a free and fair election. Regarding the alleged failure of the police and central forces, the CEO mentioned that the role of the duty officers would also be scrutinized. The protest was eventually withdrawn late at night after the police gave a formal assurance of taking stringent measures against the accused.