Tragic Shooting of Suvendu Adhikari's Aide Raises Political Concerns in West Bengal

In a shocking incident in West Bengal, Chandranath Rath, a close aide to Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead while returning from a political event. The attack, which left another individual critically injured, is being investigated as a potential political conspiracy. Eyewitness accounts and CCTV footage are being reviewed as authorities seek to identify the assailants. This tragic event raises significant concerns about political violence in the region, especially following Adhikari's recent electoral victory over Mamata Banerjee. The investigation is ongoing, with calls for accountability from political leaders.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 08:40 IST

Incident Overview

Kolkata: A tragic event unfolded on Wednesday night when Chandranath Rath, a close associate and personal aide to Suvendu Adhikari, the outgoing Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, was fatally shot while returning home from a political event in Madhyamgram, located in the North 24 Parganas district.

Kaustav Bagchi, a newly elected BJP MLA and a senior advocate at the Calcutta High Court, confirmed the incident, stating that Rath's vehicle had been pursued for a significant distance by another car.

As Rath's vehicle approached the Doharia crossing in Madhyamgram, the following car overtook and blocked his path. Armed assailants then emerged and opened fire indiscriminately, according to Bagchi.

Rath suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head, chest, and abdomen and was quickly transported to Viva City Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Bagchi suggested that the murder may be politically motivated and called for decisive action from the authorities.

He arrived at the hospital shortly after the shooting, and sources indicated that Suvendu Adhikari was also en route to the hospital upon learning of the attack.

Another individual, Buddhadeb Bera, who was in the same vehicle as Rath, also received multiple gunshot wounds and is currently in critical condition at Viva City Hospital.

Both Rath and Bera were integral members of Adhikari's team, having played key roles in his election campaign in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency, where Adhikari recently defeated Mamata Banerjee.

Police officials have indicated that the nature of the attack appears to be premeditated, and an investigation has been initiated.

Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity and seeking eyewitnesses to help identify the attackers.