In the deadliest violence in the ongoing West Bengal polls, so far, at least four people have been killed in firing by Central security forces during polling in the fourth phase in Mathabhanga in Sitalkuchi constituency in Cooch Behar district on Saturday.
Clashes had broken out outside a polling station in Sitalkuchi in Cooch Behar with bombs being hurled.
TMC supporters claimed the four dead people were the party's activists, who had been shot dead by Central paramilitary personnel. The Election Commission claimed the security forces were forced to open fire to control massive mobilisation of miscreants in polling booths.
"They were forced to fire as otherwise the booths would be looted. CAPF was challenged by equal force from miscreants' side. Many jawans got injured," said an Election Commission official.
PTI identified the Central force as CISF. "As per preliminary reports, four persons were killed as CISF personnel opened fire after coming under attack in a village. A scuffle took place and locals gheraoed them and attempted to snatch their rifles, following which the central forces opened fire. Further details are awaited," a police official said.
The number of deaths could rise further as four people are fighting for their lives in hospital and they are critical.
A mob of around 400 people attacked the Central forces.
The BJP alleged the mob attack was instigated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had urged people to "resist" Central forces from allegedly interfering in the polls.
Mamata Banerjee had declared she would continue protesting against the CRPF as long as it worked at behest of the BJP.
(With inputs from Rabi Banerjee)