A local BJP leader, Priyangu Pandey, has alleged that his car was attacked by individuals affiliated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Pandey claims the attack involved bomb throwing and firing, leaving him and his driver injured. He further alleged that the police were complicit in the attack, withdrawing his security beforehand and providing information to the assailants.
Pandey stated that he was on his way to the residence of another BJP leader, Arjun Singh, when his car was blocked by a road-clearing machine belonging to Bhatpara Municipality. Upon stopping, a group of 50-60 individuals allegedly attacked the vehicle, throwing 7-8 bombs and firing 6-7 rounds.
Arjun Singh corroborated Pandey’s account, stating that the attack was planned and aimed at killing Pandey. He accused the TMC of resorting to such tactics due to their lack of political issues and claimed that the attack took place in the presence of an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). He also highlighted the severity of the incident, mentioning that Pandey’s driver had been shot and was seriously injured.
Police confirmed the recovery of empty bomb shells near the site of the attack. The incident has raised concerns about escalating political violence in West Bengal, particularly with the upcoming state elections. The BJP has accused the TMC of orchestrating the attack, while the TMC has yet to respond to the allegations.
