Abhishek Banerjee Assaulted In Sonarpur
Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee was allegedly assaulted by a mob in Sonarpur, South 24 Parganas, on Saturday, triggering a sharp political row between the TMC and the BJP in West Bengal.
Abhishek Banerjee Assault In Sonarpur
Abhishek Banerjee had visited Sonarpur to meet Trinamool Congress workers and families who allegedly faced post-poll violence after the party’s electoral defeat in West Bengal. During the visit, he was reportedly pushed, slapped and punched by members of a crowd.
Videos from the spot showed Banerjee, who was wearing a cricket helmet for protection, being surrounded by people as his private security personnel tried to move him through the area. Stones and eggs were also allegedly thrown during the incident.
Mamata Banerjee Blames BJP
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly condemned the assault and accused the BJP of being responsible for the incident. She described the attack as an example of political violence and targeted the ruling party in her reaction.
Abhishek Banerjee also alleged that the attack was pre-planned and claimed there was no adequate police presence in the area. He said he would not leave the location until police protection was provided to the affected families.
BJP Denies Involvement In Attack
The BJP rejected the allegations and said it had no role in the incident. West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya denied party involvement in the egg-throwing and manhandling episode while also condemning the attack.
The Congress also criticised the incident and accused the state government of failing to provide adequate protection to Opposition leaders. The assault comes amid continuing concerns over post-poll violence in West Bengal, with police having earlier reported several arrests and the Calcutta High Court directing the state government to maintain law and order.
