Muslim Man Hacked to Death in Alleged BJP-Led Post-Poll Mob Attack in West Bengal's Birbhum
A Muslim man was killed and his close aide critically injured in an alleged mob attack by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in West Bengal’s Birbhum district. The incident occurred in Santoshpur village under the Nanoor police station limits, shortly after the Assembly election results were announced on May 5. Villagers and local leaders described the attack as a brutal instance of post-poll violence.
According to eyewitnesses, 35-year-old Abir Sheikh, the local booth president of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), was hacked to death while returning with friends after a fishing trip. A mob of around 50 people, allegedly comprising both BJP and CPI(M) supporters, surrounded and attacked them. Sheikh was specifically targeted and beaten with sharp weapons, resulting in his death. A video from the scene showed him lying in a pool of blood with severe injuries.
His aide, Ali Hossain, in his late 30s, was also grievously assaulted and left for dead. He was later shifted to Kolkata’s R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment. Villagers alleged that the attack took place in front of police personnel, who failed to intervene or prevent the violence. Despite knowing the identities of the attackers, no arrests had been made at the time of reporting.
TMC leaders and the victim’s family accused BJP supporters of carrying out the attack, alleging it reflected a broader pattern of post-poll violence in the region. Local TMC leader Bidhan Maji condemned the killing. However, the BJP denied the allegations, with former district leader Sannyasicharan Mondal stating that none of their workers were involved and accusing TMC workers of initiating violence during victory celebrations.
The incident is part of a series of violent clashes reported across West Bengal following the BJP’s historic victory in the state Assembly elections. Tensions remain high in the area, with police personnel deployed to maintain order. The situation underscores the volatile political climate in the region during the post-election period.