TMC Files Formal Complaint Against BJP's Jagatdal Candidate for Alleged Election Threats
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission against Rajesh Kumar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the Jagatdal constituency, for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and making threatening statements toward voters.
Alleged Threats and Video Evidence
In the complaint, TMC accused Kumar of threatening to "tie [voters] upside down and beat them up on the day results are announced." The party provided a link to a video shared on social media platform X as evidence of these alleged remarks. According to TMC officials, this behavior constitutes a serious breach of electoral decorum and undermines the democratic process.
Legal Grounds of the Complaint
The complaint detailed that Kumar's actions amount to criminal intimidation under Section 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Additionally, it stated that his conduct violates Section 174 of the BNS for exercising undue influence over voters, which is prohibited during elections. TMC emphasized that such threats create an atmosphere of fear and coercion, potentially affecting voter turnout and fairness.
Demands to the Election Commission
TMC has urged the Election Commission to take immediate action by:
- Issuing a show-cause notice to Rajesh Kumar regarding the alleged violations.
- Registering a criminal complaint against him based on the evidence provided.
- Ensuring that all BJP leaders refrain from similar acts to maintain electoral integrity.
Background of the Accused Candidate
Rajesh Kumar is a former police officer who held a Director General of Police (DGP)-rank position. Notably, he served as the Kolkata Police Commissioner during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, appointed by the Election Commission itself. This background adds a layer of irony to the current allegations, as he was once tasked with upholding election security and now faces accusations of misconduct.
The complaint highlights growing tensions between political parties in West Bengal as election activities intensify. TMC's move signals a strategic effort to hold opponents accountable under electoral laws, while the BJP has yet to issue an official response. The Election Commission's decision on this matter could set a precedent for handling similar cases in the ongoing election season.
