Raina is not an isolated case. A similar pattern is discernable across the state, with CPI(M) workers at the receiving end in most places. The party had raised the issue before Chief Election Commissioner, N Gopalaswami, during the latter’s recent visit to Kolkata.

Significantly, police have failed to respond adequately to the violence. Political circles in Kolkata allege a total breakdown of the official government machinery and the rule of law. Senior police officials claimed that in many cases they found that musclemen and anti-social elements, who had been sheltered by the ruling party so far, were changing sides.

“When musclemen and criminals switch allegiance from a party, it indicates trouble for that outfit,” said a superintendent of police. The Congress and the Trinamool Congress tie-up has definitely created an atmosphere of expectation, leading to desertions from the ruling front, he added.

Another killing in Titagarh, on the northern outskirts of Kolkata, is also a case in point and an example of how infighting has affected the CPI(M) after the poll dates were announced. A CPI(M) supporter, Bijoy Shau, was murdered and several others injured. Party sources said the violence was due to rivalry between two groups of local miscreants, patronised by party leaders.

The CPI(M) leadership has claimed that at least 15 of their cadres have been killed since February in several districts, mostly in rural belts. The affected districts are Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas, West Midnapore, South Dinajpur and Bankura.

Binoy Konar, the party’s central committee member, admitted that the CPI(M) was apprehending a violent election this time. “Our comrades are at the receiving end,” he said.

... contd.