Bypolls peaceful in Sitai & Madarihat; a few allegations of irregularities

The bypolls in Sitai and Madarihat Assembly segments of Cooch Behar and Alipurduar districts were largely peaceful, barring a few stray incidents.

By 11 am, voter turnout had surpassed 30 per cent, reaching 45 per cent in Sitai and 46 per cent in Madarihat by 1 pm.

Both TMC and BJP leaders lodged complaints over alleged irregularities at polling stations. In Cooch Behar, MP Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia filed a complaint with presiding officers, alleging interference by Central forces, particularly the Border Security Force (BSF), inside polling booths to influence voters.

Meanwhile, in Madarihat, BJP candidate Rahul Lohar alleged he was attacked and obstructed by TMC-backed tea garden workers at Mujnai as he monitored polling booths. Additionally, TMC supporters allegedly pelted stones at Lohar's vehicle while he was traveling between stations.

MP Basunia told reporters, "The central forces' duty is outside the booths to manage voter lines. Instead, they are inside the booths, influencing voters. I have asked the presiding officer to address this issue."