West Bengal polls: Media attacked by alleged TMC workers; one abducted and later released

In an unprecedented incident, media persons were allegedly attacked by Trinamool Congress supporters while they were asking questions to Left Front candidate Shyam Pandey.

In the presence of Central Forces, cameras were snatched from the cameramen and they were beaten up. As many as six media persons from Zee 24 Ghanta, ABP Ananda, Anandabazar Patrika, News Time and several others were attacked.

Sources said one media person who was said to have been held hostage, has been sent back in the police van and is seriously injured. However, his camera has been confiscated.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission has demanded an urgent report from District Magistrate of West Midnapore after this brazen attack on media persons. The district Police Superintendent has been asked to deploy forces to maintain the law and order situation.

The first of the six-phase Assembly election in West Bengal began on Monday in 18 constituencies in the Left-wing extremism-affected areas. Phase 1(a) of the election will decide the fate of 133 candidates, including 11 women, fighting from the 18 constituencies.

Follow live updates on the election here.