West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday, October 7, visited BJP MP Khagen Murmu, who sustained serious injuries when a mob attacked him on Monday in Nagrakata, North Bengal. Mr. Murmu, along with BJP MLA Sankar Ghosh, had been visiting flood-affected areas when the attack occurred.
CM Banerjee checks on injured MP
Speaking to the media after the hospital visit, Ms. Banerjee said, “There is nothing serious. He is under observation because he has high diabetes. There is an injury behind his ears, but his condition is stable.” The Chief Minister, however, did not visit Mr. Ghosh, who is the Chief Whip of BJP in the state assembly.
Despite her visit, BJP leaders expressed dissatisfaction, noting that no arrests had been made in connection with the attack. State BJP president Shamik Bhattacharya and Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari alleged that members of a particular community were involved in the incident.
National leaders respond
The attack drew attention from leaders in Delhi, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who condemned the violence. He stated on social media that the incident “highlights the insensitivity of the TMC as well as the absolutely pathetic law and order situation in the State” and expressed hope that the West Bengal government would focus on relief efforts rather than indulging in political violence.
In response, Ms. Banerjee accused the Prime Minister of politicising a natural disaster, saying, “It is unfortunate and deeply concerning that the Prime Minister has chosen to blame my party without waiting for proper investigation or administrative reports, while North Bengal grapples with devastating floods and landslides.”
Another BJP MLA targeted
Tensions escalated further when BJP MLA Manoj Kumar Oraon and his party workers faced protests at Kumargram. Vehicles in his convoy were damaged, although the MLA was unhurt. Supporters of BJP and TMC were seen clashing while relief materials were being distributed.
During the day, BJP leadership held protests in various parts of the city over attacks on their lawmakers. Meanwhile, the TMC described CM Banerjee’s visit as a “genuine gesture of concern,” asserting that “humanity must always come before politics.”
Political tensions spill over to Tripura
Adding to the unrest, a Trinamool Congress office in BJP-ruled Tripura was attacked allegedly by BJP supporters, sparking fresh tensions between political parties. The incidents underscore the increasing political volatility in West Bengal and neighbouring states ahead of upcoming elections.
Conclusion
The attacks on BJP leaders in North Bengal and the political back-and-forth between CM Mamata Banerjee and PM Narendra Modi reflect a deepening crisis in law and order in flood-affected areas. Authorities are under pressure to ensure safety for elected representatives and maintain peace during relief operations.