In the midst of the fourth stage of Lok Sabha elections across eight constituencies of West Bengal, a member affiliated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) met his demise in Ketugram, located in the East Burdwan district of West Bengal.
The lifeless body of the deceased individual, identified as Mintu Sheikh, aged 45, was discovered by law enforcement authorities during the late hours of the previous night. According to statements from TMC affiliates, Mintu fell victim to a vicious assault involving a sharp implement, followed by the hurling of explosive devices. Local TMC representatives have placed blame for the incident squarely on the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M). Ongoing investigations are being conducted by the police force.
Preliminary findings from the authorities indicate that Mintu, accompanied by a companion, was journeying homeward on a motorcycle when they encountered a group of troublemakers blocking their path near Chechudi village within the Ketugram Assembly constituency.
“The assailants forcefully toppled Mintu to the ground and proceeded to unleash a brutal assault using a sharp-edged weapon. Subsequently, three explosive devices were launched in his direction. Following Mintu’s collapse, the perpetrators swiftly vacated the scene,” recounted one TMC associate. Upon receiving notification of the incident, law enforcement personnel from Ketugram swiftly arrived at the scene, arranging for the transportation of the deceased’s remains for post-mortem examination.
TMC legislator Shahnawaz conveyed, “Mintu was a dedicated member of our political party, actively engaged in electoral activities. He came under attack while returning from duties associated with the elections in the nearby Sudipur village. The involvement of CPI-M operatives in this abominable act cannot be overlooked.”
Contrary to these assertions, local CPI-M representatives have rebuffed the accusations, attributing the incident to internal discord within the TMC ranks.