In a tragic turn of events following the declaration of election results in West Bengal, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker, identified as Madhu Mandal, was allegedly beaten to death during a ‘Bijay Michil’ (victory procession) in the Rajarhat–New Town area.
According to initial reports, Mandal was participating in the celebratory procession when a group of alleged Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers attacked him. The assault reportedly turned fatal, with Mandal succumbing to his injuries on the spot or shortly thereafter.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the political circles, especially as it occurred within hours of the election results being finalized.
#WestBengal | Piyush Kanodia wins as MLA from Rajarhat–New Town and, within hours, has to garland murdered BJP worker Madhu Mandal, allegedly killed by TMC goons.
“I have just taken charge as an MLA, and it hasn’t even been four hours, and I am having to place a garland on my… https://t.co/7bCumpWpk6 pic.twitter.com/kNdKCuT0gO
— Organiser Weekly (@eOrganiser) May 5, 2026
Piyush Kanodia wins by 316 votes, Faces grim reality hours after victory
BJP candidate Piyush Kanodia secured victory from the Rajarhat–New Town seat by a razor-thin margin of just 316 votes following a recount, marking a closely contested electoral battle.
However, what should have been a moment of political triumph turned into one of grief and outrage. Within hours of being declared the winner and taking charge as MLA, Kanodia was seen attending the last rites of the slain party worker.
Expressing anguish over the incident, Kanodia stated, “I have just taken charge as an MLA, and it hasn’t even been four hours, and I am having to place a garland on my brother’s body. I have told the police that those who are responsible for this act should not be spared at all…”
His statement shows the tense and volatile atmosphere prevailing in the region in the immediate aftermath of the elections.
Violence spreads to Jalpaiguri: Six BJP workers stabbed
In a separate incident reported from Jalpaiguri district, violence erupted involving TMC supporters allegedly led by party candidate Krishna Das.
According to reports, Krishna Das and a group of his supporters were seen carrying swords and marching through the area following the election outcome. During this time, they allegedly attacked BJP workers who were on their way to the Bodaganj Temple to offer prayers.
CAUGHT IN 4K!
Jalpaiguri, West Bengal: TMC candidate Krishna Das marched with swords after losing the election and attacked BJP workers heading to Bodaganj Mandir for puja.
Half a dozen BJP activists are admitted in Hospital. pic.twitter.com/cyQRr8A6RE
— Treeni (@treeni) May 5, 2026
At least six BJP workers sustained serious injuries in the attack and have been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their condition is currently being monitored.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the assailants used sharp weapons during the attack, intensifying concerns over the scale and nature of post-poll violence.
Allegations of armed march and targeted attacks
Visuals and local reports indicate that the group led by Krishna Das was openly carrying swords, raising serious questions about law and order during the sensitive post-election period.
The BJP has alleged that its workers were specifically targeted, claiming that the attacks were politically motivated and part of a broader pattern of intimidation following the election results.
The incidents have also brought political rhetoric into focus. References are being made to earlier statements by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had urged party workers to “fight like tiger cubs” during the election campaign.
Opposition leaders have alleged that such statements may have contributed to an aggressive political environment on the ground, though the ruling party has not officially responded to these specific accusations at the time of writing.
West Bengal has historically witnessed instances of post-poll violence, particularly during closely contested elections. The latest incidents in Rajarhat-New Town and Jalpaiguri appear to reinforce concerns about recurring political clashes in the state.
Security agencies are reportedly assessing the situation, and demands for strict action against those involved have been raised by BJP leaders and local residents alike.
