Agartala, Sept 05: The by-polls in Tripura’s Dhanpur and Boxanagar constituencies commenced at 7 am, drawing attention from various quarters. By 4 pm, both constituencies had reported a substantial voter turnout, with Dhanpur recording 85.52% and Boxanagar 81.34%.
While these elections have been marred by allegations of violence and fake voting, officials from the Chief Electoral Officer’s (CEO) office assert that the voting process proceeded peacefully across different polling stations.
In the Dhanpur constituency, BJP candidate Bindu Debnath dismissed allegations of violence leveled by the Opposition CPI(M) and Congress. She contended that electors had come out in full support of the Bharatiya Janata Party, emphasizing the party’s commitment to peace and development.
Dhanpur, once considered a stronghold of the Left, now sees a fierce contest between Bindu Debnath of the BJP and Kaushik Debnath of the CPI(M). The constituency boasts 50,346 eligible voters and witnessed a historic win by the BJP in the previous assembly polls.
Also Read: Prospects of Early Elections in 5 States Amidst ‘One Nation One Election’ Debate
On the other hand, Boxanagar assembly segment, with 66% minority voters among a total of 43,087 electors, is witnessing a competitive race between BJP’s Tafajjal Hussain and CPI(M) nominee Mizan Hussain.
In the last assembly elections held in February, the CPI(M) retained the seat, making this by-election particularly significant. Despite the allegations and tensions surrounding the polls, reports indicate that the electorate in both constituencies actively participated in the democratic process.
It’s worth noting that the Congress and the Tripura Motha refrained from fielding their candidates in these two seats for the bypolls. The by-election in the Boxanagar constituency was necessitated by the unfortunate passing of CPI(M) MLA Samsul Haque, while Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik’s resignation as the MLA of Dhanpur led to the by-election in that seat.
The high voter turnout in both Dhanpur and Boxanagar reflects the engagement and enthusiasm of the electorate in Tripura’s democratic process. These by-elections have assumed significance not only due to the competition between political parties but also because of the shifting dynamics in these constituencies.
The fact that the BJP managed to secure victory in Dhanpur in the last assembly polls, traditionally a CPI(M) stronghold, underscores the evolving political landscape in the state.
Allegations of violence and fake voting in elections are a cause for concern and need to be thoroughly investigated by the relevant authorities. Transparency and integrity in the electoral process are crucial to maintain the public’s trust in democracy. As the counting of votes is scheduled for September 8, all eyes will be on Tripura to see which party secures victory in these by-polls.
The by-polls in Tripura’s Dhanpur and Boxanagar constituencies have witnessed a substantial voter turnout, despite allegations of violence and irregularities. These elections are pivotal, not only in terms of the political contest but also for the evolving dynamics in these constituencies. The results of the by-polls, which will be announced on September 8, will determine the representation of the people in the state’s legislative assembly and shape the political landscape in Tripura.
