KOLKATA: The Election Commission on Monday directed State police to take stern action over an objectionable social media post allegedly targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Sharing a screenshot of the post, the Trinamool Congress claimed on Sunday night that a “self-proclaimed 'right-wing nationalist' from UP and a BJP supporter” had made a “vile, insulting, filthy, and highly objectionable caricature of Hon'ble Mamata Banerjee” on social media.
The party said the post was taken down following a formal complaint.
An Election Commission official said necessary directions had been issued to the police to ensure prompt action. "We have taken serious note of it and instructed the police to initiate immediate action. The matter was brought to our attention, and necessary directions have been issued to ensure action," he said.
Meanwhile, TMC member Nilanjan Das lodged a complaint with the cybercrime unit of Bidhannagar Police regarding the matter.
Police said an investigation had been started and the social media account from which the post was made was being thoroughly examined.
West Bengal will vote for 142 seats in the second phase of Assembly elections on Wednesday, while the first phase of polling was held on April 23.
The votes will be counted on May 4.
(With inputs from PTI)