Escalating post-poll violence in West Bengal has claimed the lives of two political workers and left several security personnel injured as clashes erupted following the recent election results. The fatalities, involving workers of both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), have prompted the Chief Election Commissioner to order immediate arrests to curb the spreading unrest.
Clashes in New Town and Birbhum
In the New Town area, BJP worker Madhu Mondal died on Tuesday evening after allegedly being thrashed by TMC supporters. The incident occurred in the Bhalliguri area during a BJP victory procession. Following the confrontation, Mondal was rushed to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead. The death sparked retaliatory attacks by BJP activists on the residences of TMC workers and led to a road blockade. Central forces had to be deployed to restore order.
Earlier that day, in the Nanoor area of Birbhum, TMC worker Abir Sheikh was hacked to death. Police reported that Sheikh, a member of the TMC's Nanoor Anchal Committee, was killed during an argument in Santoshpur village. While TMC MLA-elect Bidhan Majhi blamed BJP goons for the murder, BJP leader Shyamapada Mondal denied any party involvement, calling for a fair investigation. The TMC's official social media channels labelled the incident a "brutal murder," while MP Sagarika Ghosh described the violence as "horrifying."
Tensions Peak in Sandeshkhali
Tension also gripped the sensitive Sandeshkhali area, where five security personnel were injured during a night patrol. According to reports, unidentified individuals opened fire on the team while they were monitoring vulnerable pockets. Three of the injured personnel are currently undergoing medical treatment, as per media reports.
According to a PTI report, the incident occured when clashes broke out between rival TMC factions in which guns and crude bombs were allegedly used.
While authorities suspect the shooting is linked to ongoing political tensions, the exact motive remains under investigation. Police and central forces have intensified their presence in the region to prevent further escalation between the rival groups.
Regulatory Response
Chief Election Commisisoner Gyanesh Kumar has issued a direct mandate to state authorities to immediately arrest those involved in vandalism and violence.
The CEC has instructed the state's top administrative and police officials to take urgent measures to restore normalcy, The Telegraph reported.
As central forces continue to patrol sensitive zones, the state remains on high alert, with both major political parties trading accusations over responsibility for the bloodshed
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