CEC Gyanesh Kumar Faces ‘Go Back’ Slogans, Shown Black Flags Outside Kalighat Temple in Kolkata

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar faced protests outside the famous Kalighat Kali Temple during his visit to Kolkata on Sunday. Demonstrators raised “go back” slogans and waved black flags as his convoy arrived near the temple premises.

Visit to Review Poll Preparations

Gyanesh Kumar is currently on a visit to West Bengal along with Election Commissioners S. S. Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. The officials are touring the state to review preparations for the upcoming high-stakes elections and assess the readiness of the election machinery.

According to officials, the visit includes meetings with state authorities, law enforcement agencies, and election officers to ensure that the polling process is conducted smoothly and securely.

Protest Outside the Temple

While the Chief Election Commissioner was visiting the Kalighat temple, a group of protesters gathered outside the area and began chanting slogans against him. Some of them also displayed black flags, a symbolic gesture used during protests to express opposition.

Security personnel deployed at the location quickly intervened and ensured that the situation did not escalate. The protesters were later moved away from the temple premises to maintain order.

Tight Security Arrangements

Given the significance of the visit, authorities had arranged tight security in and around the temple and nearby areas. Police personnel were stationed along the route taken by the Election Commission officials to prevent any disruption.

Despite the protest, the visit of the Election Commission delegation continued as scheduled.

Focus on Upcoming Elections

The Election Commission team is expected to hold a series of review meetings with state officials to evaluate logistical preparations, security arrangements, and other aspects related to the elections.

The visit comes at a time when political activities in West Bengal are intensifying ahead of the crucial polls, making the Election Commission’s assessment an important step in ensuring free and fair elections in the state.