The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday warned the Trinamool Congress against indulging in violence during the upcoming panchayat elections in West Bengal, PTI reported. The party said it would respond in kind if there is any violence by the ruling party’s workers.
“If the Trinamool Congress tries to unleash violence on the day of the polls, it will be paid back in the same coin,” state BJP President Dilip Ghosh said. “If they attack us with bombs and pistols, we won’t greet them with a plate of sweets.”
Monday was the last day for candidates to file nominations for the elections.
“We have worked hard to ensure that our candidates file their nominations,” Ghosh said. “Now it is clear that central forces will not be deployed for panchayat elections. We have to be prepared for all eventuality. We will fight till the end.”
In a plea to the Supreme Court, the party has asked for the Central Reserve Police Force to be deployed during the panchayat elections. The BJP has accused workers of the Trinamool Congress of not allowing its candidates to file their nominations, and hence asked for the deadline to be extended.
However, earlier on Monday, the Supreme Court refused to interfere in the polls, and asked the BJP to approach the state election commission instead.
The panchayat elections in West Bengal are scheduled to be held on May 1, May 3 and May 5. The results will be declared on May 8.
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