Kolkata

The Election Commission on Thursday sought a report from officials over allegations that several people were prevented from casting their votes in Murshidabad district's Domkal during the first phase of the West Bengal assembly polls on Thursday, officials said.

Several voters in Domkal alleged that they were threatened and intimidated, with some claiming they were warned of assault if they attempted to reach polling stations.

In Raipur village, under the Domkal Assembly constituency, several people claimed that armed people were staying in the area since early morning, creating an atmosphere of fear.

The allegations were directed at the ruling TMC, though the party did not immediately respond to the charges.

People also alleged that neither the local police nor the central forces were seen in the area early in the morning. However, the situation improved later in the day after a large police contingent, along with central forces, reached the area.

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"The Election Commission has sought a report on charges of voter intimidation in Domkal," officials said.

They added that voters were subsequently escorted to polling booths under security cover, and voting resumed in an orderly manner.