Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Mar 26: Tensions flared on Thursday after a political clash broke out in Basanti area of South 24 Parganas during an Assembly election campaign, with members of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Trinamool Congress accusing each other of violence.

According to reports, BJP workers were campaigning in support of candidate Bikash Sardar when the incident occurred. The situation allegedly escalated after Trinamool supporters began filming the campaign, leading to a verbal altercation that soon turned into a physical confrontation.

The clash quickly intensified, with allegations that a group entered the BJP procession and vandalised two motorcycles parked nearby. The unrest spread rapidly, creating panic in the area.

Police personnel who intervened to control the situation were also caught in the violence, with several officers sustaining injuries. Authorities later detained eight individuals suspected of involvement in the incident.

Shubhendra Kumar confirmed the injuries to police personnel and the arrests, adding that an investigation is underway. He also noted that the BJP candidate was not present at the spot when the clash initially broke out.

After being informed, Bikash Sardar rushed to the location and reportedly got into a heated argument with police officials. He alleged that the violence was politically motivated and accused the ruling party of intimidation tactics ahead of elections, also claiming police inaction during the incident.

The Trinamool Congress had not issued an official response at the time of reporting. Meanwhile, security has been tightened in the area, with additional police deployment and route marches by central forces to prevent further escalation.