Political Tensions Rise After Gandhi Statues Vandalized in West Bengal's Asansol

Asansol:

Political tensions have flared in West Bengal's Asansol following the alleged vandalism of statues depicting former prime ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi.

The statues, located in proximity to the local BJP office, were reportedly damaged, prompting the Youth Congress to organize a demonstration. Protestors blocked the Asansol-Purulia State Highway from 11:30 pm until 2:00 am, claiming that BJP and Trinamool Congress workers were responsible for the vandalism.

Authorities at the local police station received a formal complaint regarding the incident. Police officials promised that the culprits would be apprehended and the statues would be restored within 24 hours. These assurances eventually led to the protesters lifting their road blockade.

District Congress president Debesh Chakravarty expressed strong disapproval of the incident, stating, "A comparable incident occurred last year. Despite police assurances of action within 24 hours, no arrests have been made to date. If swift action against the perpetrators is not taken, we will initiate a sit-in protest outside the Kulti police station."

BJP representatives firmly denied any involvement in the vandalism. Local BJP leader Abhijit Acharya responded, "Our principle is to construct, not to destroy. Both statues were erected through our initiative. CCTV footage has been submitted to law enforcement to assist with their investigation. Despite this evidence, no arrests have been made. Congress and Trinamool are attempting to politicize this issue."