Suvendu Adhikari’s Assistant Shot Dead in Kolkata Attack
Tension gripped West Bengal after BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s close aide Chandranath Rath was shot dead in Kolkata, sparking political accusations, violence reports and a major police investigation.
- Suvendu Adhikari aide shot dead in Kolkata
- Chandranath Rath attacked by bike borne assailants
- West Bengal violence triggers political tension
The political atmosphere in West Bengal turned tense after Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead in Kolkata on Wednesday night. The incident happened just two days after the Assembly election results, adding to growing concerns over post poll violence in the state.
According to police sources, Rath was travelling through the Doharia area near Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district when unidentified attackers on motorcycles intercepted his vehicle. The assailants reportedly followed the car before opening fire at close range through the closed window beside Rath’s seat.
Rath suffered multiple bullet injuries and was immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital. Doctors later confirmed that he was brought dead. Medical officials stated that bullets struck his chest and abdomen, causing severe internal injuries. His driver was also injured in the firing and remains in critical condition at a Kolkata hospital.
The killing has triggered strong reactions from BJP leaders, who described the incident as a targeted attack. Party leaders alleged that Rath’s movements had been tracked before the shooting. BJP MLA Kaustav Bagchi, who visited the hospital, demanded immediate arrests and said the party would continue its protest until those responsible were identified.
Security was tightened across the area soon after the attack. Large police teams were deployed to control tension as senior officers reached the spot and began an investigation. Authorities said efforts are underway to identify the attackers and determine the motive behind the murder.
Rath was considered a trusted member of Suvendu Adhikari’s team and had reportedly played a key role during the BJP campaign in the Bhabanipur constituency, where Adhikari secured a major political victory against Mamata Banerjee in the past.
The incident came amid several other clashes and violent episodes reported from different parts of West Bengal after the election results. In Rajarhat New Town, a BJP worker was allegedly beaten to death following a closely fought election result. In another incident, shops and a political office were damaged during celebrations, while cases of vandalism and firing were also reported from Murshidabad and other districts.
State police officials said strict action would be taken against those involved in violence. Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nanda confirmed that several arrests had already been made in connection with multiple incidents reported after the elections.
