ECI steps in after police blocks media persons in Asansol
India Today
The Election Commission of India had to step in after police blocked the movement of mediapersons in West Bengal’s Asansol.
The Election Commission of India stepped in after police in West Bengal blocked the movement of mediapersons in Asansol during the bypolls.
For almost 30 minutes, police did not allow the media to move behind BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul in the Barabani area of Asansol, West Bengal. The voting is underway for the by-poll to the Asansol Lok Sabha seat.
The Trinamool Congress had flagged that Agnimitra Paul was moving with a convoy of 20 cars to Barabani and the returning officer had been informed about the incident.
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A while later, local police had stopped the numerous cars of media teams which were tracking Paul and were behind her. However, Paul was not restricted in her movement. After almost 30 minutes, the cavalcades of the press cars were allowed to move as per their own choice.
The ECI has denied any movement restrictions, especially on media persons. The EC has ordered officers to allow free movement of the media. The election commission has also sought a report from the state on the issue.
The BJP candidate alleged the mediapersons were restricted as they were telecasting the election malpractices by the state’s ruling party.
