Tensions escalated in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas, as a fresh clash erupted following the release of a new sting video by the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The video allegedly features Gangadhar Koyal, a mandal president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), making controversial remarks about orchestrating unrest ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
In the video, Koyal is purportedly heard stating that he would require 50 pistols and 600 cartridges to sustain unrest in approximately 50 booths under his jurisdiction. The release of this video by the TMC late on Saturday night triggered fresh violence in Sandeshkhali on Sunday, with BJP workers, particularly women, attacking TMC workers and accusing them of fabricating the videos.
The situation intensified as the Sandeshkhali police station was gheraoed amidst the ongoing clashes. Koyal, previously seen in another sting video released by the TMC on May 4, had made controversial claims regarding the orchestrated nature of the Sandeshkhali unrest, alleging BJP involvement and manipulation of complaints related to sexual assault.
The recent video, uploaded by TMC spokesperson Riju Dutta, reportedly shows Koyal discussing the procurement of weapons, alcohol, and funds for election-related activities. Koyal’s statements in the video have sparked outrage and raised concerns about electoral malpractice and violence in the region.
Sandeshkhali gained attention earlier this year due to violent protests by village women demanding the arrest of a TMC leader, Shahjahan, over allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing. Shahjahan’s subsequent arrest and the release of multiple sting videos have fueled political tensions in the area.
In response to the latest video, Koyal has filed a complaint with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleging that the video was doctored, while the BJP has shared a video featuring a woman from the sting video claiming coercion and manipulation.
The authenticity of the videos and the allegations made therein remain under scrutiny, with no independent verification available as of now. Meanwhile, the clashes in Sandeshkhali underscore the volatile political landscape and the deep-rooted tensions ahead of the upcoming elections.
Sources By Agencies