West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal on Monday announced that no victory rallies will be permitted across the state as counting of votes for 293 Assembly seats is underway.
He said the counting process is progressing smoothly and no incidents of violence have been reported so far. To maintain law and order, district magistrates have been directed not to allow any celebratory processions on the day results are declared.
“We have instructed all DMs not to allow any victory rallies today. These processions can take place from tomorrow. We want to ensure there is no post-poll violence and appeal to everyone to remain calm and maintain peace,” Agarwal said.
He added that political parties must obtain prior permission from local police stations before organising any rallies.
Reiterating that the situation remains under control, Agarwal said no poll-related deaths or violent incidents have been reported from any part of the state.
Earlier in the day, special observer Subrata Gupta said the Election Commission was examining complaints that agents of certain political parties were unable to reach counting centres.
Authorities have stepped up vigilance across the state to ensure a peaceful counting process and to prevent any potential unrest following the announcement of results.
