Hooghly, 27 April (H.S.): Violence broke out in Goghat in Hooghly district on the final day of campaigning ahead of the second phase of polling across 142 Assembly seats in West Bengal. A bike rally held in support of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate allegedly came under sudden attack, leaving several party workers injured and triggering panic in the area.

According to BJP sources, a large bike rally was organized under the leadership of party candidate Prashant Digar from the Goghat Assembly constituency, with support from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The party claimed that the rally began from the Kantali area after obtaining necessary permissions and adhering to Election Commission guidelines.

Allegedly, when the rally entered Burma village under Shyaora Gram Panchayat, it came under attack from multiple sides. Eyewitnesses claimed that bricks and stones were hurled at the rally participants, along with water-filled bottles. There were also allegations of petrol bombs being thrown and firearms being used, turning the area into a virtual battleground within minutes.

BJP candidate Prashant Digar was reportedly seriously injured in the attack. The party claimed that at least 20 workers were injured, with two said to be in critical condition. Additionally, BJP alleged that three of its workers are still missing, further heightening concern.

Following the incident, a large contingent of police and central forces rushed to the spot. Tensions escalated as members of both sides were seen carrying sticks, bamboo poles, and stones. Police intervened to bring the situation under control and gradually dispersed the crowds.

The BJP directly blamed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the attack, alleging involvement of “harmad” elements and extremist groups. However, no official response has yet been issued by the TMC regarding these allegations.

Police sources said that four individuals have been detained in connection with the incident and are being questioned. Security has been tightened in the area, with additional forces deployed. An investigation is underway to determine how the attack was carried out and who was responsible.

The violent clash on the final day of campaigning has further intensified the political atmosphere in the district. Attention is now on the administration to see how swiftly and strictly action is taken against those responsible.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey