“Brick-batting, vandalism”: Fresh TMC–ISF violence keeps Bhangar on edge

Bhangar witnessed fresh violence on Thursday night as clashes between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Indian Secular Front (ISF) supporters turned the area into a tense battleground ahead of the upcoming elections. Reports of brick-batting, vandalism, and scuffles kept the situation volatile for hours, with both sides accusing each other of instigating the unrest.

According to allegations, ISF workers were attacked while returning from a political meeting addressed by ISF leader Naushad Siddiqui in the Gabtala area. The ISF claimed that supporters of local TMC leader Khairul Islam carried out the нападение, triggering chaos. The situation quickly escalated near Pakapole, where retaliatory violence reportedly led to brick-throwing and damage to vehicles, including earthmoving equipment and a pick-up van linked to TMC leadership.

Police from Polerhat police station, along with central forces, rushed to the spot after receiving information about the violence. Although the situation was eventually brought under control, tension persisted in the area. Naushad Siddiqui remained present at the site for a prolonged period, interacting with supporters and engaging in a heated exchange with police officials over the handling of the situation.

Blaming the ruling party, Naushad Siddiqui alleged that the large turnout at his meeting had unsettled the TMC, prompting the attack. However, TMC candidate Shaukat Molla strongly denied the allegations, claiming that the unrest was deliberately provoked by Naushad himself to create instability. He further demanded strict action against him.

Bhangar has a long history of political violence during elections, and the latest incident has once again raised concerns over law and order in the region. With polls approaching, observers believe such clashes could signal a return to the recurring cycle of unrest that has marked the area during previous elections.