Murshidabad: Fresh incidents of violence marred the electoral process in West Bengal on Thursday, with crude bombs reportedly hurled in parts of Murshidabad district, leaving several people injured and triggering panic among residents.

According to local sources, clashes broke out between rival political groups in the early hours, escalating into violence as miscreants allegedly resorted to crude bombs and stone-pelting. Multiple individuals sustained injuries in the explosions and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The exact number of injured is yet to be officially confirmed.

Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos, with loud blasts disrupting polling activity in some areas. Security forces deployed in the district moved swiftly to bring the situation under control, and additional personnel were rushed to sensitive zones to prevent further escalation.

Election officials said polling was temporarily affected in certain booths but resumed after intervention by authorities. “The situation is now under control, and voters are being encouraged to turn out without fear,” an official stated.

Police have launched an investigation to identify those involved in the violence, and patrolling has been intensified across Murshidabad and adjoining areas. Senior officers are monitoring the situation closely.

West Bengal has a history of sporadic poll-related violence, particularly in politically sensitive districts, raising concerns over voter safety and the conduct of free and fair elections.