Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday blamed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the killing of a party worker in Asansol, West Bengal, describing the incident as part of a "reign of terror" in the state. The worker, identified as 35-year-old Sanjay Singh, was allegedly attacked by TMC supporters on Monday evening and succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, Singh was returning home from a party meeting when a group of armed men intercepted him and stabbed him multiple times. He was rushed to the Asansol District Hospital but died during treatment. The Congress party has alleged that the attack was politically motivated and that local TMC leaders were involved.
Rahul Gandhi's Response
Taking to social media, Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences to the family and condemned the violence. "This is a clear example of the reign of terror unleashed by the TMC in West Bengal. The murder of our worker in Asansol is a cowardly act. I demand the West Bengal government ensure a thorough investigation and bring the culprits to justice," he wrote.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked a political war of words between the Congress and TMC. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee denied any involvement of her party and promised a fair probe. "We condemn all forms of violence. The police will investigate and take strict action against the guilty," she said in a statement.
However, the Congress party remains unconvinced. Party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala accused the TMC of creating a climate of fear. "This is not an isolated incident. Congress workers have been targeted repeatedly. The state government must answer for this lawlessness," he said.
Background of Political Violence in West Bengal
West Bengal has witnessed several instances of political violence over the years, with clashes between rival party supporters often resulting in casualties. The TMC, which has been in power since 2011, has faced criticism from opposition parties for failing to maintain law and order. The Congress and Left parties have frequently alleged that the ruling party uses violence to suppress dissent.
Earlier this year, a Congress worker was killed in Malda district under similar circumstances. The party has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into that case, which has not yet been granted.
Demand for Justice
Following the Asansol killing, the Congress party has called for a state-wide protest on Wednesday. Party workers will gather at district headquarters to demand justice for Sanjay Singh and an end to political violence. Rahul Gandhi has also urged the Election Commission to take note of the situation, especially with local body elections approaching.
Meanwhile, the police have detained three suspects for questioning. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and investigations are ongoing.
The incident has once again highlighted the volatile political climate in West Bengal, where opposition parties claim they are unable to function freely. The Congress hopes that national attention will pressure the state government to act decisively against the perpetrators.
