BJP MP Khagen Murmu Attacked During Flood Relief Work in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri

Kolkata:

Khagen Murmu, the BJP MP from Bengal's Maldaha Uttar seat, suffered serious injuries during an attack in Jalpaiguri's flood-affected region on Monday afternoon. Disturbing images showed Murmu with severe head injuries and significant bleeding, with his white scarf soaked in blood.

Both Murmu and other BJP leaders, including MLA Shankar Ghosh, were attacked while distributing relief materials to flood victims. They are currently receiving treatment at a local medical facility.

Samik Bhattacharya, the BJP's Bengal unit chief, was also scheduled to visit the affected areas.

BJP national president JP Nadda contacted Murmu by phone following the incident, according to sources.

Reports indicate that over 500 individuals blocked roads, shouting 'go back', before the attack occurred.

Shortly after the violent images surfaced, the BJP launched a strong response, with Amit Malviya leading criticisms on social media. "TMC's Jungle Raj in Bengal!" Malviya declared.

He further stated, "A respected tribal leader and two-time MP from North Malda was attacked by TMC goons while traveling to Nagrakata in Jalpaiguri's Dooars region to assist with relief efforts after devastating rains, floods, and landslides."

Malviya criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her administration of being "missing in action" in flood-affected areas. "Those actually helping the people, BJP leaders and workers, are being attacked for conducting relief work."

"This is TMC's Bengal, where cruelty rules and compassion is punished."

Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the Bengal Assembly and former Banerjee associate, directly challenged the Chief Minister regarding her "inhuman act of 'dancing at carnival with celebrities' while North Bengal suffers from floods and landslides."

"She has pressed the panic button and unleashed her goons from the 'special community' and incited them to attack BJP MPs and MLAs to prevent relief work."

"But Mamata Banerjee, you can't intimidate BJP..." he added.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged all parties not to politicize the incident. "There was a law and order situation today. I don't want to politicize it. But if you bring 30-40 cars into a village that has lost everything, what can you expect? I sent the DGP to the site. He met with residents, and I urge everyone not to politicize relief work. Whoever wants to visit should be allowed peacefully," she stated.

This deplorable attack will likely intensify hostilities between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of next year's Assembly election.