West Bengal panchayat polls: Initial trends show TMC leading in 1,218 gram panchayats, BJP in 288

Out of the total 341 panchayat samitis across the state, TMC is leading in 28 while the trends are yet to be revealed in others. Counting has also just started for the 20 zilla parishads and initial trends will arrive later in the day.

Polls were held for a total of 73,887 seats across all three levels on Saturday, but was marred by incidents of violence – which led to the death of at least 21 people – and alleged electoral malpractices. Incidents of booth capturing, ballot box looting and destruction of ballot papers were reported in several districts. Instances of disturbances outside counting centres came to light soon after the polling began in the morning.

The CPI(M) has accused the TMC of creating tension by hurling bombs in Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas district, an allegation the latter has denied.

The Left party also alleged that the TMC prevented their agents from going to the counting centre at Nanoor in Birbhum on Tuesday morning. Besides, the party said their workers were beaten up and had to face protestors who burnt tyres at Kirnahar bus stand.

The ruling TMC has, however, denied the allegations. Meanwhile, reports of sporadic violence are trickling in. Crude bombs were allegedly hurled in Diamond Harbour.