West Bengal, April 23: A massive explosion occurred near a polling booth in Murshidabad district during the assembly election voting process, injuring several people, it was learned on Thursday.
A sudden explosion occurred near a polling booth while voting was underway, injuring some voters and locals present at the spot.
Security forces and police immediately rushed to the spot and admitted the injured to a local hospital. It is said that the condition of some of them is critical.
Security has been increased around the polling booth in the wake of this incident, and officials are inspecting the spot. The cause of the explosion is not yet clear.
Following the incident, a bomb disposal squad and dog squads have been deployed around the polling booth and a search operation is being conducted.
Initial investigation has revealed that this may be part of a local level clash or a pre-planned attack.
The police have intensified the investigation based on CCTV footage, mobile data and witness statements.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India has sought an immediate report on the incident and has directed the concerned authorities to take strict action.
Such incidents have created panic in the midst of elections, and the authorities have taken additional security measures in the remaining areas to ensure peaceful voting.