Elections – BJP Protests Intensify After Aide’s Killing in West Bengal
Elections – The killing of a close associate of senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari triggered protests and heightened political tensions across parts of West Bengal on Thursday, a day after the incident took place in North 24 Parganas district.
Demonstrations Reported in Several Areas
Supporters and workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party staged demonstrations in different parts of the state, demanding swift action against those responsible for the murder of Chandranath Rath, who had been serving as Suvendu Adhikari’s executive assistant.
In Paschim Medinipur’s Salboni area, a group of BJP supporters blocked a major roadway for a brief period by placing burning tyres on the street and raising slogans against the ruling Trinamool Congress. Protesters alleged that the attack was politically motivated and linked it to the recent political developments in the state.
Police officials later intervened and convinced the demonstrators to clear the road after nearly half an hour, restoring traffic movement in the area.
Security Tightened in Madhyamgram
The atmosphere remained tense in Madhyamgram, where Rath lived and where the shooting occurred late Wednesday night. BJP supporters gathered outside his residence and nearby party offices while demanding strict punishment for the attackers.
Despite the tension, authorities said the situation remained under control. Police personnel and security forces were deployed across sensitive areas to prevent any escalation. Vehicular movement and public activities continued normally in most parts of North 24 Parganas district, though political unease was clearly visible.
Details of the Fatal Attack
According to preliminary information, Rath was travelling back home when unidentified assailants intercepted his vehicle near the Doltala area around 10:30 pm.
Witnesses told investigators that a small vehicle allegedly blocked Rath’s SUV near the Doharia junction. Shortly afterwards, attackers arriving on a motorcycle reportedly approached the vehicle and opened fire from close range before escaping.
Rath died in the attack, while the driver of the vehicle also suffered gunshot injuries. Hospital officials said the injured driver underwent multiple surgeries and continued to remain in critical condition under intensive medical supervision.
Political Reactions Continue
The incident quickly drew strong reactions from BJP leaders at both the state and national levels. While some party leaders blamed the ruling Trinamool Congress for the violence, Suvendu Adhikari refrained from directly accusing any specific group and urged party workers to allow investigators to complete the probe.
After visiting the hospital where Rath’s body was kept, Adhikari said he had confidence in law enforcement agencies and stressed the importance of waiting for the investigation to progress before drawing conclusions.
At the same time, he alleged that BJP workers in different districts continued to face attacks in the aftermath of the recent election results.
Dharmendra Pradhan Criticises State Government
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also reacted strongly to the killing and accused the West Bengal government of failing to control political violence in the state.
In statements shared publicly, Pradhan described the murder as a serious attack on democratic values and alleged that opposition workers had repeatedly been subjected to intimidation and violence. He further claimed that the atmosphere of political hostility in the state was affecting democratic functioning.
The Union minister stated that those involved in political violence, including individuals responsible for carrying out attacks and anyone protecting them, should face legal consequences. He also extended condolences to Rath’s family and expressed support for efforts aimed at restoring peace and security in the state.