Senior Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien has written to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal, alleging serious violations of election laws by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
In his letter, O’Brien claimed that the BJP arranged special trains from Surat to transport voters into West Bengal, raising concerns over electoral malpractice. He alleged that such actions amount to bribery and undue influence on voters, which are prohibited under election regulations.
The TMC MP has urged the Chief Electoral Officer to take immediate action, including issuing notices to those involved, registering a formal case, and ensuring that the expenses incurred in arranging the trains are reflected in the party’s official election expenditure accounts.
The allegations come at a time of heightened political activity in West Bengal, where electoral transparency and fair practices remain under close scrutiny. The BJP has not yet issued an official response to these claims.
If proven, such actions could have significant legal implications, potentially impacting campaign financing disclosures and compliance with the Election Commission’s code of conduct.
