Alipurduar, April 20 -- With just 72 hours left before polling, Trinamool Congress MP from Ghatal and actor Dev received a rousing welcome in Alipurduar town on Monday afternoon during a high-profile campaign visit in support of party candidate Suman Kanjilal.

Enthusiastic supporters began gathering at the Parade Ground well before Dev's helicopter landed, reflecting strong public interest. The turnout swelled further as the roadshow commenced, with Dev travelling in an open-top vehicle alongside the candidate and district leaders. People from all age groups lined both sides of the route, particularly along Buxa Feeder Road, to catch a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician.

However, the overwhelming crowd soon posed a challenge for the police, who struggled to maintain order. As the situation became increasingly difficult to control, the planned 2.5-kilometre roadshow had to be curtailed midway. Dev was compelled to switch vehicles near Mahakal Dham and return to the helipad at the Parade Ground.

Speaking to Millennium Post before departure, Dev expressed confidence in the party's prospects. "What do you think after seeing such a crowd? The result in Alipurduar will be excellent. The Trinamool Congress is set to win this seat and across the state, the party will secure more seats than before," he said. The roadshow was originally scheduled to conclude at Alipurduar Chowpathi. News of its abrupt end left a section of younger supporters disappointed.

Meanwhile, Kanjilal alleged that the disruption was the result of inadequate security arrangements despite prior intimation to the administration. He claimed that police inaction, possibly under Election Commission directives, contributed to the situation.

The BJP, however, dismissed the allegations and criticised the Trinamool Congress. District president Mithu Das said the incident reflected internal disorder within the ruling party and announced a roadshow featuring Hema Malini later this week.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.