Kolkata: A visit meant to console a bereaved family turned into a violent political flashpoint in West Bengal on Saturday, after Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee was attacked in Sonarpur South in South 24 Parganas district.
Banerjee, the TMC national general secretary, had gone to meet families affected by post poll violence, including the family of party worker Sanju Karmakar. As he reached the area, a group of protesters surrounded him. Stones, eggs and shoes were allegedly hurled at him, triggering chaos at the spot.
Reports said Banerjee’s shirt was torn and his spectacles were damaged during the scuffle. Security personnel rushed to protect him and placed a helmet on his head before escorting him away from the crowd.
After the incident, Banerjee alleged that the attack was sponsored by the BJP and claimed that the attackers wanted to kill him. He said the incident was recorded on camera and asserted that he would move court. The TMC also accused the BJP of encouraging political violence in Bengal.
The BJP has denied the allegation. Party leaders said the incident reflected public anger against the TMC and rejected claims of party involvement.
The attack drew sharp reactions from opposition leaders. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the incident and said political differences can never justify violence. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also criticised the attack, calling it unacceptable in a democracy.
The Sonarpur incident has once again pushed Bengal’s post poll violence debate to the centre of national politics. While police are expected to examine video footage and identify those involved, the political temperature between the TMC and BJP is likely to rise further in the coming days.