Three CPI (M) workers injured in political violence in Bengal

Mamata convenes emergency meeting

At least three CPI (M) workers sustained bullet injury among many injured as a major political clash broke out today after TMC workers allegedly attacked supporters of CPI (M), en route to Kolkata for a party rally.

The incident took place after TMC workers allegedly stopped vehicles carrying Left supporters, headed for Kolkata for their protest demonstration against the alleged assault of CPI (M) leader Rezzak Mollah, a former state minister, by TMC MLA Arabul Islam.

The Opposition alleged that Islam was engaged in today’s violence too near Bamanghata in South 24 Paraganas and he led the firing on CPI (M) supporters.

“Three people who suffered bullet injury are serious. Many others have been injured and have been admitted in the hospital There is no word of condemnation from the TMC or civil administration. This shows they have support from the top,” CPI (M) leader Mohammed Salim said. About 10 vehicles were set on fire during the clash.

Arabul Islam, who was also admitted in a hospital after the violence, however, denied the the allegations. His son Hakibul Islam claimed, CPI (M) rather attacked Arabul Islam.

The violence prompted West Bengal chief minister, who was suffering from fever and was on break, to call an emergency meeting at Writers’ Building. Apart from cabinet ministers, secretaries as well as the state DGP and senior police officers attended the meeting. However, while briefing the press after the meeting, West Bengal Industry minister Partha Chatterjee, too blamed the opposition for the violence. “CPI (M) is trying to create law and order problem in the state. A section of the media is also involved. To protest, we will organise demonstration against them from January 10-18. Today, some armed CPI (M) cadres attacked Arabul Islam. He alone with 10 of our workers are hospitalised.” Incidentally, TMC’s protest will coincide with stae government's annual industrial meet, Bengal Leads, scheduled January 15-17

Agitated over state government response to the incident, Opposition leader Suryakanta Mishra sought governor’s intervention in the matter.