Kolkata: West Bengal has witnessed a wave of violence following the announcement of the Assembly election results on May 4, with two separate incidents in Malda and Panihati raising concerns over law and order in the state.
Brutal Killing in Malda
A 28-year-old BJP supporter, Kishan Haldar, was allegedly hacked to death in the English Bazar area of Malda district late on the night of May 6. According to police, the incident occurred at Gadua More in Ward No. 1 under the English Bazar Municipality.
Family members of the deceased claimed that Kishan received a phone call late at night and stepped out of his house, after which he never returned. His body was later recovered from Baganpara in Maheshpur, around 500 meters from his residence. A large knife was found near the body, suggesting a brutal attack. Police suspect that the murder was carried out using a sharp weapon, possibly a cleaver. Two of Kishan’s associates were also reportedly injured in the incident.
Authorities have arrested two individuals in connection with the killing. Among those named in the complaint are Kishan’s neighbour Golam Halder and his son Suman Halder. Initial investigations indicate that the murder may have stemmed from a personal dispute rather than political rivalry.
Interestingly, local BJP leaders have also stated that the incident does not appear to be politically motivated. According to party sources, there had been prior disagreements between Kishan and the accused over local issues. Following the incident, police and central forces were deployed in the area to prevent escalation. Tension remains high, and the body has been sent for post-mortem examination as investigations continue.
Bomb Attack in Panihati
In a separate incident, violence erupted in Panihati, located on the outskirts of Kolkata, where at least five BJP workers were injured in a bomb attack.
Bombing in Panihati, 5 BJP workers injured, finger of blame pointed at Trinamool
Trinamool attacked BJP in Panihati on the outskirts of Kolkata. According to reports, a bomb was detonated in Ward No. 2 of Panihati. BJP workers were injured in the incident.
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The incident reportedly took place on Dutta Road in Ward No. 2, near St. Xavier’s School. BJP workers were interacting with local residents when unidentified assailants arrived on a motorcycle and hurled crude bombs at them. Reports suggest that at least three bombs were thrown during the attack. The injured were rushed to R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, where some are said to be in critical condition. Police have increased surveillance in the area and launched a search operation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Rising Post-Poll Violence Concerns
These incidents come against the backdrop of reported unrest across West Bengal following the election results declared on May 4. Allegations of targeted attacks, clashes between political workers, and sporadic violence have emerged from multiple districts. The situation remains tense in several parts of the state, with authorities closely monitoring developments to prevent further escalation.
