Kolkata, 6 August (H.S.):

BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar has launched a sharp attack on the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government following an attack on the convoy of Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari. Speaking to the media on Wednesday morning, Sarkar alleged that democracy and constitutional governance were under direct threat in the state.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when Adhikari was on his way to lead a BJP rally outside the office of the Superintendent of Police in Cooch Behar district. As his convoy reached the Khagrabari area, it was met with black flags and slogans. According to BJP leaders, at around 12:35 p.m., a group carrying Trinamool Congress and black flags gathered at the Khagrabari crossing and attacked the convoy.

Condemning the incident, Sarkar said, “What is happening in Bengal is against democracy. It is no secret that Mamata Banerjee and her party do not follow the Constitution. This should not be happening. She often makes statements against the country and threatens opposition leaders.”

The MP also alleged that the state police had effectively become an extension of the ruling party, adding, “Today, the police work not for the people, but for Mamata Banerjee.”

The BJP has described the attack as a “pre-planned conspiracy” by the Trinamool Congress to intimidate Adhikari. The party claims the incident is a clear reflection of the deteriorating political climate in the state. Adhikari himself has alleged that the attack was carried out with the intent to kill him. The Union Home Ministry has also taken note of the incident.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh