The move came amid rising tensions during the second phase of polling, after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that “observers from outside” and police officers unfamiliar with Bengal were being deployed in a manner that targeted TMC workers.

The deaths had sparked widespread fear and confusion, even lead to a drop in watermelon sales and prices. But reports say that some organs of the four victims — including the brain, heart, and intestines — had turned green, indicating possible poisoning.

“During May 2026, maximum temperatures are expected to be normal to below normal across many parts of the country,” the IMD said.