Five Arrested in Jalpaiguri — The political landscape in North Bengal witnessed fresh turbulence this week as five individuals were arrested by Jalpaiguri Police in connection with the violent attack on BJP legislators Khagen Murmu and Sankar Ghosh. The assault, which took place amid rising tensions between supporters of rival political groups, has once again spotlighted the growing menace of political violence in West Bengal.
The incident occurred near the Dhupguri area when both BJP leaders were reportedly visiting their constituency for a public outreach event. Eyewitnesses described a sudden outburst of violence involving sticks, stones, and crude weapons. Murmu, a sitting MLA from Habibpur, and Ghosh, the MLA from Siliguri, were both injured and immediately rushed to a nearby hospital.
Police Action: Five Suspects in Custody
Following the attack, Jalpaiguri Superintendent of Police announced that five suspects have been taken into custody. Preliminary investigations indicate that the accused are affiliated with a local group allegedly having links to rival political factions. Police have also detained several others for questioning and have deployed additional forces across sensitive zones to prevent further escalation.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects will be produced before a district court, and charges under non-bailable sections related to attempted murder, rioting, and unlawful assembly are likely to be framed. “We are investigating the conspiracy angle and reviewing CCTV footage to identify more individuals involved,” said a senior officer.
For updates on similar developments, visit The Telegraph India – West Bengal News.
Five Arrested in Jalpaiguri: BJP Leadership Condemns the Attack
Reacting sharply, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar condemned the attack and accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of fostering a “culture of political intolerance.” He alleged that BJP leaders and workers are increasingly becoming targets of organized assaults designed to suppress opposition voices in rural Bengal.
“This is not an isolated incident. Across districts like Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Malda, our party members are being attacked systematically,” Majumdar said at a press conference. He further announced that the party will approach the Election Commission of India demanding action and protection for elected representatives.
Party insiders hinted that the BJP might organize a statewide protest if law enforcement agencies fail to ensure justice.
TMC Denies Involvement, Blames Internal Feud
However, the Trinamool Congress leadership swiftly rejected the allegations, calling the BJP’s claims “politically motivated.” A senior TMC spokesperson stated, “The administration is already handling the case. Law will take its own course. It is wrong to drag the party’s name into every local dispute.”
Local TMC members in Jalpaiguri have maintained that the clash may have stemmed from an intra-party misunderstanding within BJP ranks, citing growing factionalism. Some residents from the area claimed that personal enmity and competition over local influence might have triggered the confrontation rather than purely political motives.
Despite the denial, the incident has rekindled debates around West Bengal’s recurring political clashes, particularly in North Bengal, where rivalries between TMC and BJP supporters often escalate into violence.
Victims’ Health Condition and Hospital Report
Doctors at the Jalpaiguri Super Specialty Hospital confirmed that both BJP MLAs sustained multiple injuries but were now stable. Khagen Murmu reportedly suffered a deep cut on his head and minor fractures, while Sankar Ghosh endured bruises and shoulder trauma.
Medical staff described the injuries as “non-life-threatening but severe,” emphasizing that the attack was clearly premeditated.
“Both leaders are under observation. They will need rest for at least a few days,” said a senior doctor. The hospital administration has increased security around the wards following the high-profile nature of the case.
Political Violence in North Bengal: A Pattern of Fear
The Jalpaiguri attack underscores a larger pattern of escalating political hostility in North Bengal. In recent years, clashes between BJP and TMC cadres have intensified, particularly following the 2021 Assembly elections when the BJP made substantial gains in the region.
Districts like Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, and Jalpaiguri have witnessed repeated instances of violence, vandalism, and threats against public representatives. Experts believe that the polarised political environment, coupled with unemployment and economic grievances, fuels these tensions.
Analysts warn that the continued cycle of retribution could destabilize local governance and create fear among citizens, discouraging political participation.
Administration Steps Up Surveillance and Curfew Measures
In the wake of the attack, the Cooch Behar–Jalpaiguri range police have stepped up patrolling in rural pockets known for volatile political activity. Intelligence officials have also been asked to track social media for inflammatory posts or videos inciting violence.
District magistrate Ayesha Rani held an emergency coordination meeting, instructing police to maintain “zero tolerance” toward any attempt to disturb public peace. “We are closely monitoring the situation. Additional forces from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed,” she confirmed.
The administration has also appealed to all political parties to maintain restraint and avoid provocative statements.
For background on Bengal’s recent law and order measures, you can visit The Hindu – Bengal Politics.
Local Reaction: Fear and Fatigue Among Residents
Residents in Jalpaiguri expressed frustration over the recurring political confrontations that disrupt normal life. Local shopkeeper Prabir Dey lamented, “Every time there’s a rally or political event, we fear violence. Shops close early, and customers stay away.”
Similarly, students from nearby schools said they were afraid to step out due to road blockades and sudden clashes.
Civic groups have called for cross-party dialogue to de-escalate tensions and restore peace in the region. “Political rivalry shouldn’t endanger citizens. We urge both parties to prioritize dialogue over street fights,” said Nandini Roy, a local human rights activist.
Opposition’s Countermove: Call for Central Intervention
The BJP’s central leadership is reportedly preparing to submit a memorandum to the Union Home Ministry, seeking intervention in maintaining law and order in politically sensitive districts of Bengal.
Meanwhile, state intelligence reports suggest that more coordinated security measures may soon be announced, particularly ahead of upcoming municipal elections.
Political experts interpret this incident as a potential test case for the Centre’s stance on law and order in opposition-ruled states. “Every act of violence now has electoral consequences,” said political analyst Biswanath Chakraborty, pointing out that both parties will likely use the Jalpaiguri episode to strengthen their narratives.
A Broader Reflection: The Cost of Partisan Politics
The repeated cycle of violence in West Bengal has raised questions about political accountability and institutional independence. Despite periodic crackdowns, no long-term strategy has yet been devised to curb politically driven aggression.
Observers argue that sustainable peace can only be achieved through strong political will, bipartisan dialogue, and strict enforcement of law. The growing number of attacks on elected officials also highlights vulnerabilities in security protocols for public representatives.
To explore how political violence impacts democratic participation, read the study by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF): Political Polarisation and Violence in Eastern India.
Conclusion: A State on Edge, Awaiting Justice
As investigations continue, the Jalpaiguri attack stands as another grim reminder of the fragile peace in West Bengal’s political theatre. The arrest of five individuals offers a glimmer of progress, but many remain skeptical about lasting justice.
For Khagen Murmu and Sankar Ghosh, the ordeal has reignited a state-wide debate on the safety of opposition leaders, administrative impartiality, and the need for stronger democratic ethics. With both TMC and BJP trading accusations and no end to the hostility in sight, Bengal’s citizens continue to navigate daily life in a politically charged atmosphere.
Until justice is delivered and peace restored, Jalpaiguri remains a microcosm of West Bengal’s volatile political landscape—a region where every election season brings not just votes but violence, fear, and an uncertain promise of change.
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