Kolkata, West Bengal
BJP MP Khagen Murmu has reacted strongly to the murder of Chandranath, personal assistant to senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, describing the incident as a “pre-planned conspiracy” and demanding strict punishment for those responsible.
Speaking in Kolkata, Murmu stated that the nature of the attack raises serious suspicions about organised involvement. “At this moment, I can say that the conspiracy appears pre-planned,” he said, suggesting that the killing was not a random act of violence but a carefully executed operation.
The murder has intensified the already tense political atmosphere in West Bengal following the recently concluded Assembly elections. Political clashes, allegations of post-poll violence, and accusations between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have continued to dominate the state’s political landscape, making the incident particularly sensitive.
Murmu accused the TMC of having a long history of political violence in the state. He claimed that Bengal had previously witnessed widespread bloodshed and intimidation under the ruling party’s political culture, adding that such incidents created fear among ordinary citizens and political workers alike.
He also referred to the ongoing political dispute surrounding the election results and statements made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after the polls. Murmu criticised her refusal to resign despite the election outcome, stating that while she may pursue legal options, the people’s verdict should be respected.
According to Murmu, democracy ultimately depends on public mandate, and elected leaders must accept electoral outcomes even if they disagree with them. He argued that questioning the verdict repeatedly could weaken public trust in democratic institutions and processes.
At the same time, Murmu claimed that the 2026 Assembly elections were comparatively more peaceful than earlier elections in the state. He pointed out that the two phases of polling were conducted without major casualties, contrasting them with previous elections that had witnessed severe violence and unrest.
However, he acknowledged that isolated incidents of violence still occurred after the results. He stated that investigations are currently underway and expressed confidence that the authorities will identify and arrest those responsible for the murder and related disturbances.
Murmu further asserted that the formation of a BJP government in West Bengal would lead to stronger action against political violence and criminal activities. He promised that justice would be delivered and that those involved in murder, intimidation, and hooliganism would face the “strictest punishment.”
The BJP leader’s remarks reflect the party’s broader political messaging after its major electoral victory in the state. The BJP has repeatedly stated that restoring law and order and ending political violence will be among its key priorities in governance.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the killing of Chandranath. Police are examining evidence, including vehicle movements, witness accounts, and possible links to political rivalry, though no final conclusions have yet been officially announced.
Political observers note that the murder has become a significant flashpoint because of Chandranath’s close association with Suvendu Adhikari, one of the BJP’s most influential leaders in Bengal politics. Any attack connected to such high-profile figures is likely to carry wider political implications and trigger strong reactions across party lines.
The case has also reignited debate over the issue of political violence in West Bengal, a state where electoral rivalry has often been accompanied by allegations of intimidation, clashes, and attacks on party workers. Many analysts believe the handling of this investigation will be closely watched as a test of the administration’s ability to maintain stability during a period of political transition.
Security has reportedly been tightened in several sensitive areas following the incident. Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain calm and avoid spreading rumours while investigations continue.
As the political situation develops, both the BJP and TMC are expected to continue exchanging accusations over responsibility for violence and unrest in the state. The outcome of the investigation into Chandranath’s murder may therefore carry not only criminal significance but also major political consequences in West Bengal’s evolving power landscape.
