Political Tensions Escalate: BJP Accuses TMC of 'Mafia Culture' in West Bengal

The BJP accuses the TMC of perpetuating a 'mafia culture' in West Bengal following the shooting death of Suvendu Adhikari's aide. Allegations of targeted violence against BJP members and post-poll instability surfaced, with demands for a CBI probe into the incident amid heightened political tensions.

In a significant escalation of political tension, the BJP on Thursday accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of fostering a 'mafia culture' following the murder of Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant in West Bengal.

Chandranath Rath was killed by assailants believed to be associated with the TMC, prompting BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla to assert that the act was part of a broader trend of institutionalized violence targeting BJP workers. Claiming a premeditated attack due to recent electoral setbacks faced by the TMC, Poonawalla labeled the incident a 'planned political murder.' In response, the TMC condemned Rath's killing and called for a CBI investigation.

The incident has sparked unrest in parts of North 24 Parganas, with heavy security deployed as protests erupted due to the escalating violence, which continues to mar West Bengal's political landscape post-elections.