Bharat bandh: 9 dead, thousands arrested as Dalit protests turn violent

In New Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar explained the decision to conduct the West Bengal Assembly Elections in two phases instead of the eight phases seen earlier. The Election Commission of India said the decision followed detailed deliberations and was taken to ensure convenience for voters and better management of the polling process. Kumar also stated that the Commission has sought a list of police officers allegedly involved in violence during previous elections, adding that action will be taken as per law. He further said supplementary voter lists prepared under court directions will be added to the existing electoral roll.