Bengal BJP MP Claims Attack on Convoy in Darjeeling: ‘Conspiracy to Disturb Peace’
In a dramatic escalation of political tensions in West Bengal, BJP MP from Darjeeling, Raju Bista, has alleged that his convoy was attacked on Tuesday evening while traveling through the region. Bista described the incident as a “well-planned conspiracy to disturb peace” in the hills, raising serious concerns about the law-and-order situation in the state.
Details of the Alleged Attack
According to Bista, the attack occurred near Kurseong, a town in the Darjeeling district, as his convoy was en route to a public meeting. He claimed that a group of miscreants pelted stones at his vehicle, damaging the windshield and causing minor injuries to some of his staff members. The MP accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of orchestrating the attack, alleging that the party was attempting to intimidate BJP workers and disrupt political harmony in the region.
In a strongly worded statement, Bista said, “This is not just an attack on me or my team; it is an attack on democracy. The TMC is resorting to violence to silence the opposition. But we will not be cowed down. The people of Darjeeling will not tolerate such tactics.”
Accusations Against State Police
The Darjeeling MP also criticized the state police for their alleged inaction, claiming that they failed to provide adequate security despite prior intimation about his visit. “It is clear that the police were complicit in this attack. They were informed about my schedule, yet no measures were taken to ensure our safety,” he added.
TMC’s Response
The TMC has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “baseless” and “politically motivated.” Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh accused Bista of staging the incident to gain sympathy ahead of the upcoming elections. “The BJP is known for creating fake narratives to divert attention from their failures. There is no evidence to support their claims. The people of Bengal see through their drama,” Ghosh said.
Escalating Political Tensions
The incident has sparked a war of words between the BJP and the TMC, with both parties trading accusations on social media and public platforms. The BJP has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter, urging the central government to intervene if the state administration fails to act.
Political analysts believe the incident could further deepen the rift between the two parties, especially in the sensitive Darjeeling region, which has a history of political unrest. The hills have been a BJP stronghold in recent years, with the party winning the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat in the last two general elections. However, the TMC has been making inroads in the region, leading to heightened political tensions.
Law-and-Order Concerns
The attack on Bista’s convoy has reignited debates about the law-and-order situation in West Bengal, which has been a contentious issue between the state government and the opposition. The BJP has repeatedly accused the TMC of failing to maintain peace and security, while the ruling party has dismissed these claims as politically motivated.
Local Reactions and Police Investigation
As the controversy unfolds, the people of Darjeeling are left grappling with uncertainty and fear. Many locals have expressed concern over the potential for further violence, urging both parties to prioritize peace and stability over political gains.
Meanwhile, the police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. Senior officials have assured that strict action will be taken against those found guilty. “We are examining the evidence and questioning eyewitnesses. The law will take its course,” said a police spokesperson.
Conclusion
The attack on Raju Bista’s convoy has once again highlighted the volatile political climate in West Bengal. With elections on the horizon, such incidents are likely to fuel further polarization, making it imperative for all stakeholders to work towards restoring calm and ensuring the safety of citizens.
As the situation develops, stay tuned for the latest updates and insights on this unfolding story.
