Political Tensions Escalate in Kolkata Over Campaign Materials and Violent Attack
Kolkata witnessed a significant escalation of political tensions this week, with two separate incidents highlighting the volatile atmosphere in the city. The first incident unfolded in the Beleghata area, where a confrontation erupted between supporters of rival political parties over the alleged removal of campaign posters.
Beleghata Poster Dispute Sparks Clash Between Party Workers
On Sunday, a routine patrol by central security forces in Beleghata turned contentious when Trinamool Congress supporters objected to what they claimed was the removal of their campaign posters and materials. The situation quickly deteriorated as BJP supporters reportedly challenged the Trinamool activists, leading to a heated skirmish in the locality.
Local police authorities intervened promptly, detaining four individuals from the scene to prevent further escalation. However, law enforcement officials later stated they had released those detained and denied that any major clash had occurred between the two political factions.
Trinamool candidate Kunal Ghosh brought the matter to public attention on Monday, making serious allegations that central forces had deliberately taken down his campaign posters and election materials. Ghosh took his complaint to social media platforms, formally lodging his allegation in a public forum. He subsequently visited the Beleghata police station to file an official complaint regarding the incident.
Police authorities confirmed they had received a formal complaint regarding the poster removal allegations. A senior police officer provided initial observations, stating, "Prima facie, it appears that the hoardings may have fallen due to natural causes such as a storm or possibly an accident involving a vehicle. Nevertheless, we are thoroughly investigating the allegation and have forwarded the matter to the Election Commission for further review."
Violent Attack on Murder Case Accused in Bhangar
In a separate and more violent incident, Rafiqul Khan, an accused in the high-profile murder case of Trinamool leader Razzak Khan, was attacked with a sharp weapon on Monday. The assault occurred in front of the Bhangar 2 Block Development Office, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Officers from the Bijoyganj police station responded immediately to the scene, where they recovered a sharp weapon and a bamboo stick as evidence. Investigators have launched a comprehensive probe into the violent attack, examining all possible angles and motives.
Police investigators revealed they are exploring whether the attack stemmed from old enmities or personal disputes, though they emphasized that the exact motive and identities of the perpetrators remain unconfirmed at this stage. Authorities are meticulously reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to identify those responsible for the assault.
Rafiqul Khan had previously been arrested in connection with the 2025 killing of Razzak Khan, a prominent Trinamool figure in Bhangar who was considered close to party leader Shakwat Molla. This connection adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, as authorities work to determine whether the attack was politically motivated or related to other factors.
These two incidents occurring in close proximity have raised concerns about political violence and campaign integrity in Kolkata. The Beleghata poster dispute highlights the intense competition between political parties during election season, while the Bhangar attack underscores the lingering tensions from previous violent incidents in the region.
Local authorities continue their investigations into both matters, with police maintaining a heightened presence in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation of tensions. The Election Commission is monitoring the situation closely as political activities intensify across the city.
