13 Jun 2023 | 09:51 AM UTC
India: Clashes reported in Bhangar, West Bengal State, the afternoon of June 13 amid election nomination
Authorities responding to clashes at Block Development Office in Bhangar, West Bengal State, India, afternoon June 13. Exercise caution.
Event
Authorities are responding to clashes between two political parties at the Block Development Office in Bhangar, West Bengal State the afternoon of June 13. Local media reports that protesters had used crude low-level bombs against police. Skirmishes first broke out on June 12 between supporters of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the All India Secular Front (AISF), in which one person was injured. Clashes also occurred in multiple locations, including Daspur, Kakdwip, Raninagar, Shaktinagar, Barshul, and Minakhan. Reports indicate that the cause of the incident was TMC members' obstruction of AISF candidates from filing nominations for the village council election. The number of casualties in the June 13 violence is not immediately clear.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture in the area. Increased security measures will likely lead to localized transport and business disruptions.
Advice
Avoid the area until the authorities give the all-clear. Allow additional time for travel. Monitor local media for updated information about security and road conditions. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area.
