Violence breaks out as nominations begin, Congress worker shot dead in WB Murshidabad district; 2 arrested

In a disturbing incident on the first day of filing nomination papers for the panchayat elections in West Bengal, a Congress worker was tragically killed in Khargram, Murshidabad district. The incident sparked unrest and clashes throughout the state, leaving 15 people injured.

Reports suggest that miscreants associated with the Trinamool Congress launched an attack during a gathering in Khargram. Witnesses recount that the assailants used bamboo sticks, iron rods, and firearms, leading to a chaotic scene.

The injured victims were rushed to the Kandi sub-district hospital, where Phulchand Sheikh, the Congress worker, was declared dead. Eight others remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition.

The violence has heightened concerns about the upcoming panchayat elections, with several incidents of unrest occurring in various parts of the state. In Bankura, images circulated showing stone pelting on an MLA's car, further exacerbating tensions.

Reacting to the situation, Leader of Opposition Shubhendu Adhikari condemned the violence, alleging that Trinamool Congress goons fired five rounds of bullets during the nomination process. He accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and State Election Commissioner Rajiv Sinha of having blood on their hands. Adhikari warned that the people of West Bengal should brace themselves for even more severe bloodshed.

Amid the ongoing turmoil, conflicting narratives surround the incident. While the victim's wife claimed that her husband had no political affiliations, another family member asserted that Phulchand Sheikh was associated with the Congress party. The family maintains that the attackers were Trinamool Congress supporters, specifically mentioning a person named Imran.