Howrah, 26 April (H.S.): Tension and violence erupted in Howrah on Sunday during a BJP roadshow, leading to clashes between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers. The situation escalated after slogan shouting from both sides, resulting in scuffles and allegations of vandalism. Police and central forces had to resort to a lathi charge to bring the situation under control.
The incident took place during a campaign roadshow in North Howrah on the final Sunday before the second phase of polling. The rally was organised in support of BJP candidate Umesh Rai, and actor-turned-politician and BJP MP Ravi Kishan also participated in the event. Tension escalated as the procession passed through the B Road area of Liluah.
According to local sources, TMC workers gathered near their party office and raised slogans of “Jai Bangla,” while BJP supporters responded with “Jai Shri Ram.” The exchange of slogans quickly turned into a heated argument, which later escalated into physical confrontation between the two groups.
The BJP alleged that their roadshow was deliberately obstructed and that TMC workers removed their party flags and replaced them with their own. On the other hand, the TMC denied the allegations and claimed that their party office was attacked during the BJP rally and vandalised.
As the situation deteriorated, police and central forces rushed to the spot and used lathi charge to disperse the crowd. Authorities stated that the situation is now under control, although the area remains tense.
BJP candidate Umesh Rai alleged that TMC workers tore party flags and raised provocative slogans during the rally, calling it indicative of the party’s political culture.
TMC candidate Gautam Choudhary, however, accused the BJP of bringing outsiders to disturb peace and claimed that their workers were only putting up party flags when they were attacked.
Both parties have stated that they will lodge formal complaints with the police. The incident has further heightened political tension in the region ahead of the upcoming phase of elections.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey
