Loaded pistol recovered from SUV in Malda ahead of polls; Congress–Trinamool war of words erupts

The recovery of a firearm in Malda district just ahead of the Assembly elections has triggered political tension in the region. On Saturday evening, police were conducting routine checkpoint inspections near Chenchu More on National Highway 12 in Purana Malda when they stopped a suspicious Scorpio vehicle for checking. During the search, officers recovered a loaded 7mm pistol from the trunk of the vehicle.

Police immediately detained and arrested six youths who were travelling in the SUV. According to initial reports, the individuals are residents of the Phulbari and Kamlabari areas under the English Bazar region. The recovery of the weapon and the arrests created a stir locally, particularly given the heightened political atmosphere ahead of the elections.

Soon after the incident came to light, it triggered a political confrontation between the Congress and the Trinamool Congress. Leaders from both sides exchanged accusations, with the seizure of the firearm becoming a fresh flashpoint in the ongoing political rivalry in the district. Responding to the controversy, Congress leader Mantu Ghosh said the firearm was actually a licensed weapon belonging to former MLA Mustaqin Alam. According to him, the pistol had been inadvertently left inside the vehicle during the rush and preparations surrounding Eid celebrations. He also claimed that the relatives travelling in the vehicle were unaware that the firearm had been left in the trunk and said attempts to politicise the matter were unnecessary.