LS elections: Paramilitary officer found dead at Bengal polling station
What's the story
In a shocking incident, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer was found dead in the restroom of a polling booth in Mathabhanga, Coochbehar, West Bengal.
His body was found just before voting commenced there.
Preliminary reports from hospital sources suggest the officer may have slipped and sustained a fatal head injury in the washroom.
Voting for Lok Sabha elections in Coochbehar began this morning under heavy security.
Investigation update
No foul play suspected in officer's death
As per the initial information, there is no suspicion of foul play in the officer's death.
According to hospital sources, the officer reportedly slipped and fell in the washroom and suffered a head injury,
However, an autopsy is scheduled for later today to provide definitive answers regarding his cause of death.
Election day
Voting continues amidst heightened security measures
Despite the tragic incident, the voting process in Coochbehar proceeded under increased security.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated incumbent MP Nisith Pramanik for this seat, while the Trinamool Congress has put forth Jagadish Basunia as their candidate.
Coochbehar is a high-profile constituency in North Bengal that witnessed clashes during the 2021 state elections.
Today's elections in West Bengal also include Alipurduars and Jalpaiguri constituencies, both previously won by BJP in 2019.
Election Commission
Lok Sabha polls to be held between April and June
The Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases.
The subsequent phases will be held on April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.
With around 96.9 crore people eligible to vote, this year's election is set to be one of the longest and largest polling exercises in India's electoral history.
The results for all elections, including by-elections, assembly elections, and general elections will be announced on June 4.