Boroline, Burnol in poll battle: EC’s ‘you will burn’ warning jolts Kolkata before phase 2

In a stern and unconventional warning ahead of the second phase of polling on April 29, the Election Commission has intensified its crackdown on electoral malpractices in Kolkata, even invoking household ointments ‘Boroline’ and ‘Burnol’ to underline the severity of action against offenders.

The message, issued through a social media post by South Kolkata District Election Officer (DEO) Ranbir Kumar, comes amid heightened enforcement activity across the region.

Authorities have reported significant seizures and preventive actions in a bid to ensure free and fair elections.

Addressing a press conference at the Survey Building in Alipore on Monday, the DEO, alongside police and CRPF officials, said Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) and Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) have seized ₹8.94 crore in cash so far.

Enforcement agencies have also acted on warrants extensively, with 505 still pending, 681 newly issued, and 962 already executed.

In a major preventive push, over 2,000 history-sheeters have been taken into custody.

Since January, officials have seized 32 firearms and 83 rounds of ammunition, including six firearms and three cartridges specifically from South Kolkata.

Against this backdrop, the DEO’s social media message struck a sharp tone. Urging citizens to vote without fear, he warned that those attempting to intimidate voters or disrupt the electoral process would face strict consequences.

Listing out prohibited activities, the DEO made it clear that violence, intimidation, provocation, booth capturing, booth jamming, and obstruction of voters will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

He cautioned that violators would face such stringent action that they would “feel the burn from within,” in a pointed metaphor reinforced by references to Boroline and Burnol.

The Election Commission has reiterated its commitment to curbing unethical practices and ensuring a peaceful polling process. Officials emphasised that any attempt to derail this mission will invite immediate and strict legal action.

With enforcement tightening and surveillance heightened, authorities have signalled zero tolerance for disruptions as Kolkata gears up for a crucial phase of voting later this month.