The Election Commission has called for an all-party meeting to discuss campaign-related matters today amid rising Covid-19 cases in the country.
On Thursday the Chief Election Commissioner of West Bengal directed officials and all the political parties to ensure strict compliance of the COVID-19 guidelines ahead of the fifth phase of polling, which is to be held on Saturday. The officials were asked to ensure that voters maintain at least 2-feet distance at the polling booths in view of worsening COVID-19 situation.
Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged the Election Commission to hold the remaining three phases at one go.
“Amid ongoing pandemic, we firmly opposed ECI’s decision to conduct West Bengal polls in 8 phases. In view of surge in #COVID19 cases, I urge ECI to consider holding remaining phases in one go. This will protect people from further exposure to virus,” Mamata Banerjee said.