Kolkata, 09 May (H.S.):

Supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday gathered outside the Kalighat residence of former Mamata Banerjee and raised “Jai Shri Ram” slogans shortly after Suvendu Adhikari took oath as the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal.

The incident took place hours after Adhikari was sworn in at the Brigade Parade Ground in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior BJP leaders.

According to local sources, a large number of BJP workers and supporters, many riding motorcycles, assembled near Banerjee’s residence in Kalighat after the oath-taking ceremony. The supporters allegedly raised slogans outside the residence, while some party workers gathered near the main gate.

Police personnel deployed in the area attempted to disperse the gathering and prevent supporters from moving closer to the residence. Central forces were later deployed outside the house to ensure that the situation did not escalate and to maintain law and order in the locality.

Officials said the situation remained under control and no untoward incident was reported. Security personnel were seen restricting movement near the residence and preventing supporters from approaching the area.

Sources said security arrangements outside Banerjee’s residence had been scaled down after the Assembly election results were declared and barricades outside the Kalighat house were removed. However, she continues to receive security cover entitled to a former chief minister.

Security deployment outside the residence of Abhishek Banerjee was also reportedly reduced in recent days.

Saturday’s development prompted authorities to strengthen security arrangements around the Trinamool Congress supremo’s residence amid concerns over possible tension in the area.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh