The Cooch Behar tragedy underscores the need for all stakeholders to exercise restraint in words and actions

It is the Election Commission’s (EC) responsibility to conduct “free and fair” elections; however, its role often comes under the scanner of the parties in the poll fray; it is accused of being biased, undemocratic and selective in cracking down on the violators of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Not only this, the “impartiality” of the apex poll body is questioned every now and then, right from the first stage of setting up the voting dates. The Opposition accuses it of “dancing to the tune” of the regime at the Centre and “managing” the election dates that best suit the ruling party. Even after the results, the losing parties and candidates cry foul that the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were rigged. Most of these charges against the credibility of an independent, constitutional body are unfounded and only part of the politics of subterfuge. Unfortunately, however, such manoeuvres have become the hallmark of elections these days. The happenings in West Bengal, where the EC has slapped a 24-hour campaign ban on Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee for “instigating the voters” and making “highly insinuating and provocative remarks”, are no exception.

The poll panel’s order drew sharp reactions not only from the TMC but also from the Congress and the CPM — all these parties are in the Opposition at the Centre — with Mamata sitting on a dharna at the Gandhi Murti in Kolkata. It appears that Didi is playing all her cards — from wheelchair politics to dharna politics — to prevent the BJP from wresting power from the TMC in its bastion. Citing similar reasons, the EC has banned the BJP’s Rahul Sinha from campaigning for 48 hours for his remark that the Central forces should have shot more people in Sitalkuchi. It also issued notices to Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh for his controversial remarks. There should be a detailed inquiry into what instigated a mob to threateningly advance towards the CISF personnel on poll duty in Cooch Behar that subsequently led to four civilian deaths. Earlier, Mamata had asked the State’s people to gherao the Central forces. While the EC is working to the best of its ability, the politicos must also stop instigating people or making comments that potentially could disturb law and order in the politically-sensitive State. No matter who wins or loses the battle for Bengal, democracy must not be made to bleed.