The Union Home Ministry on Monday sought a detailed report from West Bengal government on the first phase of panchayat polls, particularly the situation in Nandigram where CRPF and police reportedly clashed with CPI(M) cadres.
"The Home Ministry has sought a detailed report from the state government," a Home Ministry spokesman said.
On the basis of the report, the Home Ministry is likely to hold a high-level meeting with senior officials to take stock of the situation.
The first phase of panchayat polls in five districts of the state yesterday was marred by a confrontation between CPI-M MP Lakshman Seth and CRPF DIG Alok Raj, who faced charges of molestation in Nandigram. The DIG, however, denied the charge.
During the polling, which was by and large peaceful, Maoists detonated a landmine in Purulia killing a BSF jawan and injuring 11 others, while CPI-M cadres allegedly blocked supporters of opposition Trinamool Congress from casting votes at some villages in trouble-torn Nandigram in East Midnapore district.
A large contingent of Central para-military forces, including CRPF and BSF had been deployed in the areas where the polling took place on Sunday.
© 2024 Rediff.com -