The political storm surrounding the sensational killing of Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, intensified on Thursday, with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) condemning the murder while demanding a court-monitored probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

In an official statement, the TMC described Rath’s killing as “brutal” and reiterated that political violence has no place in a democratic society. At the same time, the party alleged that three of its workers had been killed in the past three days in incidents it linked to BJP-backed miscreants, despite the Model Code of Conduct still being in force.

Calling the recent developments part of ongoing post-poll violence, the ruling party urged that all those responsible be swiftly identified and punished under the strictest provisions of law. It also pressed for a CBI investigation under judicial supervision to ensure transparency.

Adhikari backs state police probe—for now

Even as calls for a central agency probe gained momentum, Adhikari struck a measured tone, expressing conditional confidence in the ongoing State Police investigation.

Speaking on the murder in Madhyamgram, North 24 Parganas, he said investigators have already uncovered crucial leads and appear to be moving in a “positive direction.” While terming the killing “cold-blooded” and “premeditated,” Adhikari refrained from directly blaming any political entity, stating that law enforcement agencies should independently identify the perpetrators.

Adhikari, who recently defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency, also indicated that all angles—including a possible political motive—are being examined.

DGP supervises probe, CCTV footage under scanner

Director General of Police Siddhinath Gupta personally visited the crime scene to oversee the investigation. According to police officials, CCTV footage from nearby areas is being closely examined to identify the assailants.

“We suspect a two-wheeler and a private vehicle were used in the well-planned attack. The vehicle blocked Rath’s car while two assailants followed him on a motorcycle. One of them approached the vehicle and fired at close range,” Gupta stated.

Police confirmed that six bullets were fired. Three struck Rath in the chest, proving fatal, while three others hit his associate, who is currently undergoing treatment. Investigators have also seized a vehicle believed to have been used in the crime, though it reportedly bore a fake registration number.

Preliminary findings suggest that the attackers had conducted reconnaissance in the area for several days prior to the attack.

The BJP has appointed former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh to closely monitor the progress of the State Police probe. She is expected to maintain regular coordination with senior officials and track developments in the case.

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar visited the site late Wednesday night following the incident. Both he and Adhikari appealed to party workers to maintain calm and assured Rath’s family of full support.

Opposition leaders demand swift justice

The murder has triggered sharp reactions across the political spectrum. CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty described the incident as a “premeditated murder” and called for exemplary punishment for those responsible.

Echoing similar concerns, Congress state president Subhankar Sarkar demanded a comprehensive investigation with judicial oversight.

Before entering active politics, Rath had served in the Indian Air Force. After his retirement, he became a close associate of Adhikari and played an important role in BJP’s organisational and campaign activities.

Most recently, he was actively involved in Adhikari’s high-profile election campaign in Bhabanipur, further cementing his position as a trusted aide within the party.

The killing, carried out in a swift and calculated manner on a public street in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night, has not only raised serious concerns over law and order but also intensified political tensions in the state. Investigations are ongoing.

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