Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party government in West Bengal of fostering an atmosphere of political violence and fear, alleging that two workers of the All India Trinamool Congress died after being attacked by “BJP-backed goons” following the recent change of power in the state.
In a sharply worded post on his WhatsApp channel, the Trinamool Congress national general secretary alleged that Somnath Acharya of Polba-Dadpur block in Saptagram Assembly constituency and Tapan Sikdar of Chakdah block in Chakdah Assembly constituency succumbed to injuries sustained in violent assaults.
“The death count rises, yet every cry for justice falls on deaf ears,” Banerjee said. “Our dedicated workers — Somnath Acharya and Tapan Sikdar — were brutally assaulted by BJP4Bengal-backed goons. Tragically, both succumbed to the severe injuries inflicted upon them,” he alleged.
Raising questions over the law and order situation under the newly formed BJP administration, Banerjee said supporters of the Trinamool Congress were living under fear and intimidation in the state.
“The grieving families ask a simple but chilling question — does supporting Trinamool Congress in Bengal under BJP4India’s watch now invite violence, persecution, and death?” he wrote.
The Trinamool leader also targeted the administration and top leadership of the Centre, accusing them of remaining silent over the incidents. “Police — inactive. Courts — silent spectators. BJP netas — busy celebrating. Prime Minister — planning his next foreign tour. Home Minister — completely missing in action,” Banerjee said.
He further alleged that the people of West Bengal were being subjected to what he termed the BJP’s “politics of violence, vengeance and utter lawlessness”.
The allegations come at a time of heightened political confrontation in West Bengal after the BJP’s victory in the recent Assembly elections ended the 15-year tenure of the Trinamool Congress government headed by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Since the transition of power, the TMC has repeatedly accused BJP supporters of attacking opposition workers in several parts of the state.
The BJP has denied the allegations and accused Trinamool Congress activists of attempting to create unrest and politicise incidents of violence. The party has maintained that the state administration and police are functioning impartially and in accordance with the law.