Three days before the polling in West Bengal’s sixth phase of elections, a tragic incident has occurred in the Sona chura area of Nandigram. On Wednesday night, a female BJP worker was killed, and several others were injured in a violent attack. The situation in Nandigram has grown increasingly tense following this event. Despite the severity of the attack, local sources report that no arrests have been made so far.
Details of the Incident: Attack on BJP Workers
According to eyewitness accounts and local sources, the attack took place while BJP workers and supporters were guarding the Mansapukur market area during their election campaign. Allegedly, a group of assailants on motorcycles launched a sudden attack on the BJP workers using sharp weapons. The primary target appeared to be Ratibala, a dedicated BJP worker, who was fatally injured in the assault. Her son, Sanjay Adri, who tried to protect her, sustained serious injuries and has been hospitalized in critical condition.
Immediate Aftermath: Injuries and Hospitalization
In the chaos that ensued, the attackers managed to flee the scene before villagers could intervene. The injured, including Ratibala and other BJP workers, were quickly taken to the Super Specialty Hospital in Nandigram. Unfortunately, doctors declared Ratibala dead on arrival. Due to the severity of his injuries, Ratibala’s son was referred to a hospital in Kolkata for further treatment. Reports indicate that about 7 to 8 other BJP workers who were injured in the incident are currently receiving treatment at Nandigram Hospital.
Political Repercussions: Blame and Accusations
The death of Ratibala has intensified the political tensions in Nandigram, with the BJP pointing fingers at the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Nandigram BJP leader Meghnad Pal accused the TMC of orchestrating the attack to instill fear ahead of the elections. Pal specifically mentioned the visit of Abhishek Banerjee, Mamata Banerjee’s nephew, to Nandigram on Wednesday, implying a connection between his visit and the subsequent violence. Pal called for severe punishment for those responsible for the attack.
TMC’s Response: Denial and Counterclaims
In response, the Trinamool Congress has denied any involvement in the incident. Local TMC leaders suggested that the violence stemmed from internal conflicts within the BJP, rather than an external attack orchestrated by their party. This claim has added another layer of complexity to the already charged political atmosphere in Nandigram.
Nandigram’s Electoral Importance
Nandigram holds significant importance in the current electoral landscape, falling under the Tamluk Lok Sabha constituency, where polling is scheduled for the upcoming Saturday. The recent violence has further polarized the area, with both major parties trading accusations and striving to control the narrative in the critical final days before the vote.
A Community on Edge
As the situation in Nandigram remains tense, the local community is on edge, awaiting further developments and hoping for justice. The attack has not only claimed a life but also heightened the already charged political climate, underscoring the volatile nature of the current election season in West Bengal. The coming days will be crucial in determining how this incident will influence voter sentiment and the overall election outcome in the region.
