A Block Development Officer (BDO) office in Goalpokher-II, Chaukulia, North Dinajpur district, West Bengal, was vandalized and set alight by a mob of approximately 300 people on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The incident occurred during ongoing hearings related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process overseen by the Election Commission of India.
Violence Disrupts Voter Revision Process
According to a First Information Report filed by the BDO, the mob forcefully entered the office premises between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, furniture, electronic equipment, and official documents across multiple sections, including Relief, Social Welfare, SHG, and NRLM.
Police responded to the scene and attempted to contain the situation, while staff secured themselves inside the building. Despite these efforts, the mob reportedly re-entered the premises and ignited broken furniture and torn documents, exacerbating the damage. Government property damage is estimated at Rs 20 lakh.
Several police personnel, including the Inspector-in-Charge of Chakulia Police Station, sustained injuries while attempting to control the mob. Office staff also reportedly suffered attacks and received medical attention. CCTV footage of the incident has been provided to authorities.
Recent Pattern of Violence
This incident follows a similar event on Monday at the Block Development Office in Farakka, Murshidabad district, where a poll official was injured during a ransacking. Following the Farakka incident, a BJP MLA accused a TMC MLA and the Chief Minister of inciting violence.
Roads connecting Islampur and Dalkhola were also blocked during the unrest. Police have initiated an investigation into the Goalpokher-II incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, as directed by the Election Commission of India and district authorities, involves issuing notices to voters for hearings. The BDO office was conducting these hearings when the incident occurred.
How much damage was caused to the BDO office?
The FIR estimates that government property worth approximately Rs 20 lakh was damaged during the attack, including infrastructure, furniture, electronic gadgets, and official documents.
Were there any injuries reported?
Several police personnel, including the Inspector-in-Charge of Chakulia Police Station, were injured while attempting to control the mob. Office staff also reportedly sustained injuries and received medical attention.
As investigations proceed, it remains to be seen what further actions will be taken in response to these incidents and whether similar disruptions could occur at other BDO offices during the ongoing SIR process.
Keep reading