Mamata Blames AIMIM, ISF for Malda Gherao Ahead of Elections

Assembly Elections LIVE: Mamata Blames AIMIM, ISF for Malda Gherao; Accuses BJP, Congress of ‘Instigation’

admin April 3, 2026

Kolkata, West Bengal [India], April 3:
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee blamed AIMIM and ISF for orchestrating the gherao of judicial officers in Malda district. She also accused the BJP and Congress of instigating the incident, increasing tensions ahead of the state assembly elections.

West Bengal Police Arrest Mastermind Behind Malda Gherao

The West Bengal Police arrested the alleged mastermind behind the gherao of seven judicial officers in Malda’s Kaliachak block office. This occurred on Thursday, April 2, 2026, during Special Intensive Revision (SIR) duty for electoral rolls. The Election Commission (ECI) transferred the investigation to the NIA, following a Supreme Court directive.

Election Commission Announces Paid Holiday for Workers on Polling Days

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that all employees, including daily wage and casual workers, will get a paid holiday on polling days during the upcoming general elections and bye-elections. This move ensures more participation in the polls.

Agitation Over Electoral Roll Revision Spreads Across West Bengal

Political tensions rose in West Bengal after the Malda episode. Protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls spread to multiple districts. The Supreme Court intervened, censuring the state administration just three weeks before the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election.

Prime Minister Modi’s Road Show in Puducherry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Puducherry on Friday, April 3, 2026, for a road show. He aims to rally support for the NDA candidates ahead of the assembly elections. Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry will go to the polls on April 9, 2026. Tamil Nadu will vote on April 23, 2026.

West Bengal Election Dates Confirmed

The Election Commission confirmed the schedule for the West Bengal Assembly elections. The first phase will take place on April 23, 2026, and the second phase on April 29, 2026. The vote counting will occur on May 4, 2026.