Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata
Kolkata, May 7: In a shocking incident shortly after the Assembly election results, the personal assistant of West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari was shot dead in Madhyamgram on the outskirts of Kolkata, while his driver sustained injuries. The attack has triggered political tension and demands for a thorough investigation.
According to reports, Chandranath Rath, who had been closely associated with Adhikari and handled his political coordination and office responsibilities for several years, was travelling in a car when unidentified assailants allegedly followed the vehicle and opened fire. Police sources said four rounds were fired, three of which struck Rath. Visuals from the spot showed bullet marks on the vehicle’s front left window.
The driver, identified as Buddhadeb, was also injured in the attack and has been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Rath was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared dead.
Suvendu Adhikari reportedly reached the hospital soon after being informed of the incident. His brother and BJP MP Dibyendu Adhikari stated that Suvendu Adhikari was not present at the time of the attack and called for a detailed investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging a deeper conspiracy behind the killing.
BJP leaders have strongly condemned the incident, claiming it reflects a continuing pattern of political violence in the state. Party leaders including Nikhil Prasun and Devdas Mondal have demanded strict action against those responsible.
Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress has denied involvement and condemned the killing, alleging instead that BJP-backed elements are attempting to create unrest in the post-poll period. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s party has called for calm and urged authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Nand stated that multiple arrests have been made in connection with post-poll disturbances across the region. At least 80 individuals have been detained, including those taken into preventive custody, as investigations continue.
The incident has intensified political tensions in West Bengal, with both major parties trading accusations while police continue their probe into the targeted killing.