Suvendu Adhikari’s Aide Shot Dead in Madhyamgram; Another Critically Injured

Kolkata (IANS): Unidentified assailants shot dead Chandranath Rath, a close aide and personal assistant to the outgoing Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night. Rath was returning home from a party program in the North 24 Parganas district when the attack occurred.

The Ambush at Doharia Crossing

Newly elected BJP MLA and senior Calcutta High Court advocate Kaustav Bagchi confirmed the incident, claiming that another car had pursued Rath’s vehicle for a considerable distance. According to Bagchi, the pursuing vehicle overtook and blocked Rath’s car as it reached the Doharia crossing. Armed men then emerged and opened indiscriminate fire.

Rath sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his head, chest, and abdomen. Although responders rushed him to Viva City Hospital, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Secondary Casualty and Investigation

The attackers also critically injured Buddhadeb Bera, who was traveling in the same vehicle. Bera sustained multiple bullet injuries and remains in critical condition at Viva City Hospital. Both Rath and Bera served on Adhikari’s core team and recently managed his election campaign in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency, where Adhikari defeated Mamata Banerjee.

Allegations of Political Conspiracy

Bagchi alleged a political conspiracy behind the targeted killing and demanded immediate, firm action from the administration. He arrived at the hospital shortly after the incident, and sources indicated that Suvendu Adhikari was also traveling to the hospital upon receiving news of the attack.

Police Launch Manhunt

Police sources stated that the precision of the attack suggests a pre-planned execution. Senior police officials have secured the crime scene and launched a full investigation. Authorities are currently examining local CCTV footage and seeking eyewitnesses to identify and trace the assailants.