BJP MP Khagen Murmu Attacked in North Bengal Amidst Election Violence

In a shocking incident that cast a shadow over the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Khagen Murmu was subjected to a violent attack in North Bengal. The MP for Malda Uttar constituency sustained injuries and his vehicle was heavily vandalized, sparking immediate political outrage and an urgent complaint to the Election Commission.

The assault reportedly occurred as Murmu was returning from a polling booth in his constituency.

According to his account, a group of individuals ambushed his convoy, pelting stones and assaulting the occupants. Visuals emerging from the scene showed a vehicle with shattered windows and significant damage, a stark testament to the intensity of the attack.

Speaking from the hospital where he was admitted for treatment, Murmu unequivocally accused 'Trinamool-backed goons' of orchestrating the assault.

He claimed the attack was a deliberate act of intimidation aimed at voters and political opponents, particularly on election day. He described the incident as an attempt to disrupt the democratic process and instill fear among the electorate.

The BJP swiftly condemned the incident, describing it as a blatant attack on democracy and an attempt to stifle the voice of the opposition.

Party leaders demanded immediate and stringent action against the perpetrators, asserting that such violence has no place in a democratic election. A formal complaint detailing the incident and Murmu's allegations was promptly lodged with the Election Commission of India, urging a thorough investigation and enhanced security measures.

In response, local leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) vehemently denied any involvement in the attack.

They countered the BJP's accusations, suggesting that the incident might have been staged by the BJP itself to garner sympathy and malign the ruling party. They called for an impartial inquiry to ascertain the true facts of the matter.

The attack on Khagen Murmu highlights the volatile political climate in West Bengal, especially during election periods, where clashes between rival political factions are not uncommon.

It underscores the challenges faced by election authorities in ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process amidst intense political rivalries.