Violence Erupts in West Bengal: BJP Workers Targeted in Bomb Attack
Bomb Attack on BJP Workers in Panihati
Kolkata: In a shocking incident, at least five members of the BJP sustained injuries when crude bombs were thrown at them in the Panihati region of North 24 Parganas district, as reported by local authorities on Thursday.
This violent act occurred just hours after the tragic murder of Chandranath Rath, who served as a personal assistant to Suvendu Adhikari.
According to police reports, the attack unfolded shortly after midnight on Dutta Road, located in Ward No. 2 of the Panihati Municipality.
Witnesses indicated that a group of BJP workers was engaging with local residents when several assailants arrived on motorcycles. Eyewitness accounts suggest that four individuals on the bikes launched bombs at the BJP members.
Three bombs were detonated in quick succession, after which the attackers fled the scene. The bombing left five BJP workers with serious injuries.
The incident has heightened tensions in the locality, prompting the injured individuals to be rushed to RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where they are currently receiving critical care.
Following the attack, officers from the Khardah police station quickly arrived at the scene, along with central forces, to restore order and initiate patrols in the vicinity.
An investigation into the incident has been launched by the Khardah police, who are currently reviewing CCTV footage and searching for the perpetrators.
In response to the violence, Suvendu Adhikari commented on the situation, stating, "The politics of revenge has plagued the state for 15 years. This is the outcome of 15 years of chaos. Last night, there was a bombing in Khardah, and BJP workers were shot in Basirhat. Those responsible for this violence will face consequences."
The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress of orchestrating the bombing in Panihati, which is situated approximately 7 kilometers from Madhyamgram, where Adhikari’s assistant was fatally shot.
Allegations have surfaced that the attackers were linked to the Trinamool Congress, although the party has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. Since the results of the West Bengal Assembly elections were announced on May 4, there have been numerous reports of post-election violence across the state. Incidents have included assaults on Trinamool Congress workers, vandalism of party offices, and destruction of party materials. Additionally, BJP workers have also been targeted, resulting in multiple injuries. Authorities have assured that strict measures will be taken against those engaging in such violent acts.