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BJP, TMC accuse each other of attacks, claim 4 people have died
Four people were reported killed in post-poll clashes across West Bengal within 24 hours, with BJP and TMC blaming each other for the violence. The incidents included killings of party workers and attacks on party offices, amid police caution and a central directive to prevent post-poll violence. The article also notes earlier elections in April were largely peaceful.
Why It Matters
The clashes underscore ongoing political tensions in West Bengal after a closely contested election and raise concerns about law-and-order and political violence in the state.
Timeline
10 Events
Context: April elections largely peaceful
May 5, 2026
The article notes that the two-phase assembly elections held in April were largely peaceful, contrasting with the post-poll violence reported in the current period.
TMC responses on social media
May 5, 2026
The TMC posted reactions on X accusing the BJP of unleashing violence; the party claimed two of its workers were killed and criticized the 'Poriborton' narrative.
BJP comments on violence and calls for action
May 5, 2026
Samik Bhattacharya, BJP state president, condemned the violence and said if any BJP worker attacks another party’s worker or engages in intimidation, they will be expelled; the administration was urged to take strict action against all involved in violence.
ECI directive to ensure zero tolerance toward post-poll violence
May 5, 2026
The Election Commission of India directed the state's chief secretary, director general of police and CAPFs deployed in the state to ensure zero tolerance towards post-poll violence.
Injuries and property attacks in Naihati
May 4, 2026
Three persons were injured in Naihati’s Mamudpur where a BJP worker’s house was attacked; later a local club was also ransacked.
Ransacking of TMC offices across multiple locations
May 4, 2026
TMC offices were ransacked in several locations: East Kolkata (Sushanta Kumar Ghosh’s ward office attacked late Monday night), Tollygunge (Arup Biwas’ party office attacked), Panihati, Ghatal, Asansol, Diamond Harbour and Falta, with supporters alleging BJP involvement.
Killing of Biswajit Pattanaik in Beleghata, Kolkata
May 4, 2026
Biswajit Pattanaik, a TMC worker, was killed in Beleghata, Kolkata, with family members alleging a direct attack.
Killing of Abir Sheikh in Birbhum
May 4, 2026
Abir Sheikh, a TMC member, was killed in Birbhum district.
Killing of Yadav Bar in Udaynarayanpur, Howrah
May 4, 2026
BJP worker Yadav Bar was killed in Udaynarayanpur in Howrah; his wife Krishna Bar said he was attacked for shouting ‘Joy Shree Ram’ and for saffron colours.
Killing of Madhu Mondol in New Town, North 24 Parganas
May 4, 2026
Madhu Mondol, a BJP worker, was killed while returning home after attending a party victory rally in New Town, North 24 Parganas.