Violence erupted in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Tuesday, just hours before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the region. Clashes between political groups left a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel injured, officials said.
Incident Details
The incident took place in the Hasnabad area, where supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP allegedly clashed. According to police, the altercation began when a group of TMC workers allegedly attacked BJP workers who were preparing for the Prime Minister's rally. BJP leader Arjun Singh, a former TMC member who recently joined the BJP, was among those injured. He was reportedly hit with a sharp object and has been admitted to a local hospital.
A CISF personnel, deployed for security arrangements ahead of PM Modi's visit, was also injured while trying to control the mob. He sustained minor injuries and is receiving treatment.
Political Reactions
The BJP has accused the TMC of orchestrating the violence to disrupt the Prime Minister's program. Party leaders demanded strict action against the perpetrators. West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar condemned the attack, calling it a "cowardly act" and urged the Election Commission to take note.
On the other hand, the TMC denied any involvement, claiming that the violence was a result of provocation by BJP workers. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said, "We are not responsible for any violence. The BJP is trying to create a law-and-order situation to gain political mileage."
Security Measures
Additional security forces have been deployed in the area to prevent further escalation. The Prime Minister is scheduled to address a public meeting in the district later today. Authorities have assured that all necessary measures are in place to ensure the event proceeds peacefully.
The incident highlights the tense political climate in West Bengal, which is gearing up for the upcoming assembly elections. Both parties have been engaged in a bitter war of words, and sporadic violence has been reported in several parts of the state.
