Kolkata, 02 April (H.S.): Questions have been raised over security arrangements during Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s roadshow in Kolkata on Thursday after clashes reportedly broke out between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) during the nomination rally of BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari from the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency.

The roadshow, which began from Hazra crossing in the presence of Shah, witnessed large crowds of party supporters. However, tensions reportedly escalated near the Kalighat area, close to the residence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, where sloganeering between rival party supporters led to a confrontation.

According to BJP leaders, some TMC supporters allegedly entered the rally route despite the high-security presence for the Union Home Minister, raising concerns about possible lapses in security planning. The BJP claimed that several of its workers were assaulted in the incident, though there was no immediate official confirmation of the claims.

Further tension was also reported near the Survey Building, where Adhikari later proceeded to file his nomination papers. BJP sources alleged that one of their workers sustained an eye injury during the confrontation.

Due to security concerns, Shah was reportedly shifted to another vehicle at one point before proceeding to the nomination venue, while the rest of the programme continued as scheduled.

The BJP has criticised the state administration, alleging inadequate security arrangements despite the presence of a Z-plus protectee like the Union Home Minister. The party has demanded accountability over the alleged breach.

Despite the incident, Shah addressed party supporters and urged voters to back BJP candidates, stating that the Bhabanipur contest would carry significant political importance in the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections.

The state administration has not yet issued a detailed statement on the allegations, while security arrangements remain under scrutiny following the incident.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh