Fresh political violence has shaken West Bengal after at least five BJP supporters were injured in a bomb attack in the Panihati area on Wednesday night amid rising tensions following the Assembly election results.
The latest violence came only hours after the killing of a close aide of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, intensifying the political confrontation between the BJP and the ruling All India Trinamool Congress.
Crude Bombs Hurled Near BJP MLA’s Residence
According to reports, unidentified attackers allegedly threw crude bombs at BJP workers gathered on Dutta Road in Ward No. 2 of Panihati.
The incident reportedly occurred near St Xavier’s Institution and close to the residence of newly elected BJP MLA Ratna Debnath.
Witnesses said party workers were interacting with local residents in the area when the attack took place, triggering panic among people nearby.
Injured Workers Shifted To Hospital
At least five BJP supporters sustained injuries in the explosion and were rushed to RG Kar Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
Police teams later reached the area and began investigation and security checks following the attack.
Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby locations to identify those involved in the violence.
BJP Alleges Political Retaliation
The BJP alleged that the attack was politically motivated and claimed individuals linked to the ruling TMC were behind the violence.
Party leaders accused political opponents of targeting BJP workers after the recent election results changed the political atmosphere in the state.
The incident came shortly after the killing of Chandranath Rath, a close associate of Suvendu Adhikari, who was allegedly shot dead by bike-borne attackers earlier in the day.
BJP leaders claimed the back-to-back incidents reflected a pattern of post-poll intimidation and retaliation.
TMC Rejects Allegations
The ruling TMC denied the BJP’s accusations and distanced itself from the violence.
Party leaders said the allegations were politically motivated and demanded a fair investigation into both incidents.
Police officials have not yet confirmed the identities or political affiliations of the attackers.
Political Violence Raises Security Concerns
The recent incidents have once again brought focus to post-election violence in West Bengal, a recurring issue during major political transitions in the state.
Security has reportedly been tightened in several sensitive pockets across North 24 Parganas and nearby districts as authorities monitor the situation closely.
Political analysts say the coming days will be crucial as tensions remain high following the dramatic Assembly election outcome.
