KOLKATA, MAY 7:A Ramshackle trekker and two constables - this is what the West Bengal Government had arranged for sending over 2,000 people back to their homes in Nandigram before the panchayat polls. But no one turned up to go back.

“We did not come here to have fun, living under the hospital shed. We came here to save our lives. Cadres are continuing to threaten our people. If I go back, I will be killed. Will the Government save me at my village?” asked Arati Pramanik, gram panchayat candidate from Giribazar area. Suvendu Adhikary, TMC leader, said, “On Tuesday, the BDO told us that security would be provided to people who return home. But where is the security inside the village?”

Adhikary’s rally in Khejuri was attacked by armed CPI(M) cadres whereas Lakshman Seth, district CPI(M) leader, was gheraoed for 45 minutes at Bajkul. Sporadic clashes were also reported from some parts of Nandigram which left five BUPC supporters injured. The house of one CPI(M) supporter was also reportedly torched in Amgachia.

However, the state Election Commission said polls would not be deferred. “If people do not come forward, I cannot push them to their homes,” said Shantiram Gorai, BDO, Nandigram. Said S Panda, SP of East Midnapur district: “It is not possible for us to post policemen at every village.”

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