Central Minister Condemns Violence in West Bengal Following BJP Aide's Murder
In a recent incident in West Bengal, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan condemned the murder of BJP aide Chandranath Rath, attributing it to the violent political culture fostered by the Trinamool Congress. He criticized the TMC for using intimidation and violence against political opponents, asserting that such actions are a direct attack on democracy. Pradhan emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for political violence and expressed his condolences to Rath's family. This incident raises serious concerns about the state of political discourse and safety in West Bengal.
May 7, 2026, 19:23 IST
Political Violence in West Bengal Under Scrutiny
New Delhi: Following the tragic shooting of Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, by assailants on motorcycles in Madhyamgram, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched a strong critique against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday. Pradhan accused the TMC of fostering a "political culture drenched in blood" in West Bengal. In a post on X, he labeled the murder as barbaric and cowardly, alleging that 'TMC goons' are targeting BJP workers and supporters through violence and intimidation.
Pradhan stated that the brutal killing of Chandranath Rath, an aide to Suvendu Adhikari, is yet another horrifying incident stemming from the violent political culture instigated by Mamata Banerjee and the TMC. He emphasized that BJP workers and supporters have repeatedly faced attacks and murders for refusing to succumb to the politics of fear and intimidation prevalent in the state. He asserted that this is not an isolated act of violence but a deliberate mechanism designed to crush the opposition through terror.
The central minister claimed that Mamata Banerjee and the TMC are resorting to 'threats, brutality, and political bloodshed' as they lose their grip on the state. He remarked that what is currently unfolding in West Bengal is a direct assault on democracy, where dissent is met with violence and political rivals are viewed as justifications for murder. Pradhan stressed that there is no place for violence and revenge in a democracy, and those responsible for political violence, whether they are criminals or their patrons, will be held accountable under the law. He also assured that the sacrifices of Chandranath Rath and other BJP workers will not be in vain, and the commitment to restore peace and democratic values in West Bengal will continue. In conclusion, he expressed his condolences to Rath's family and prayed for the peace of the departed soul.