Ground report: Muslim voters stopped, Opposition arrested, journalists blocked in Bengal bye-poll

What happened: A West Bengal Assembly bye-poll in Rejinagar saw Opposition allegations that police turned away Muslim voters, detained Opposition workers, and blocked journalists. The Election Commission observer called the vote free and fair. Key numbers: Muslims are 60%-70% of Rejinagar's population per the 2011 census and local estimates. Why it matters: Opposition candidates say the BJP cannot win the seat without misuse of state machinery, and allege police detained their polling agents while releasing those who switched to the BJP.

A West Bengal Assembly bye-poll in Rejinagar saw Opposition allegations that police turned away Muslim voters, detained Opposition workers, and blocked journalists. The Election Commission observer called the vote free and fair.

Opposition candidates say the BJP cannot win the seat without misuse of state machinery, and allege police detained their polling agents while releasing those who switched to the BJP.