TMC Leader Responds After Controversial Sonarpur Incident
Trinamool Congress national general secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee has publicly reacted to the controversy surrounding the alleged attack on him in Sonarpur, using strong words against the Bharatiya Janata Party and accusing it of encouraging a culture of political hostility.
His remarks came a day after dramatic scenes unfolded during his visit to South 24 Parganas, where he had travelled to meet the family of a party worker reportedly linked to post-poll violence.
Thanks Rahul Gandhi for Support
Banerjee also acknowledged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had earlier condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with the TMC leader.
“Thank you, Rahul ji, for your concern and constant support. We stand united and resolute in our fight to protect the soul of India, defend its democratic institutions and uphold the values enshrined in our Constitution,” Banerjee wrote in a social media post.
Draws Comparison Between Diplomatic Mission and Political Violence
Highlighting his recent participation in an all-party delegation connected to Operation Sindoor, Banerjee said he had represented India internationally and joined leaders across party lines in presenting a united front against terrorism.
Referring to the Sonarpur episode, he alleged that political opponents were now attempting to silence dissent through intimidation and violence.
According to Banerjee, democratic voices should not be targeted for expressing differing political views, and he vowed to continue speaking out despite what he described as attempts to intimidate him.
Sonarpur Visit Turned Tense
The controversy erupted during Banerjee’s visit to Sonarpur, where a crowd allegedly confronted him while raising slogans. Reports claimed that eggs and stones were thrown during the commotion, while videos circulating online showed chaotic scenes around the TMC leader’s convoy.
Visuals from the area also showed Banerjee wearing protective headgear as security personnel escorted him away from the gathering.
Political Blame Game Intensifies
The Trinamool Congress has accused BJP supporters of orchestrating the incident, a charge that the BJP has firmly denied. The episode has since triggered a fresh political confrontation between the two parties, with leaders trading allegations over responsibility for the unrest.
Rahul Gandhi, while condemning the attack, described it as a serious assault on democratic values and called for swift action against those involved. He also urged authorities to ensure the safety of elected representatives irrespective of political affiliation.
As the political fallout continues, the Sonarpur incident has become one of the most debated developments in West Bengal politics, drawing reactions from multiple parties and intensifying the war of words ahead of future political battles.
