Mamata Banerjee questions heavy force deployment in Bengal

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Thursday asked the Election Commission of India to explain why there was a "record number" of central paramilitary force deployed only in West Bengal. She urged the ECI to give details of force deployment in other states. She also alleged that RSS cadre was "distributing cash" to people while seeking votes in Medinipur constituency. "I would urge ECI to come out with a list: How many central forces have been deployed in which states and why a record number of central forces have been sent to Bengal. You want to capture Bengal? You don't have faith in people?" she said. The ECI has sanctioned deployment of 920 companies of central forces in Bengal, highest among all states.

Banerjee also raised questions on having seven phases of elections, amid a heat wave in Bengal, compared to one phase in Tamil Nadu. One person died of heatstroke in South Dinajpur's Gangarampur a day ahead of second phase poll, Banerjee said and asked the ECI officials to try to stand in the sun for 4-8 hours and see what it felt like. "BJP has designed the poll schedule for ECI, so that their leaders can campaign in Bengal," Banerjee alleged.

Raising the allegation against the RSS, Banerjee said, "In Keshiari, RSS will give money to you but please vote for Trinamool and show them their place. RSS leaders are going to houses and speaking to people. I have heard that BJP is giving money and food to people if they go to rallies. For how many days will they give you money?"