Three injured in BJP-TMC conflict linked to drinking and gambling allegations in Shalbagan

A violent clash broke out between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday night over the control of a playground in the Shalbagan area of Ward No. 3 under Barasat Municipality in North 24 Parganas district. The confrontation left three individuals from both sides seriously injured, and they were admitted to Barasat District Medical College Hospital for treatment.

The playground of the ‘Chhatradal Club’ near the Helabattala-adjacent Shalbagan area had allegedly turned into a hub for drinking and gambling activities. Residents claimed that anti-social elements frequently gathered at the ground, engaged in abusive behaviour and threatened passersby after consuming alcohol, creating tension in the locality. The situation reportedly escalated on Tuesday night when an argument broke out over a drinking session at the playground. BJP leader Pratip Chatterjee, also known as ‘Lattu’, along with his associates, has been accused of attacking Bubai Banerjee, the brother of local TMC leader ‘Buro Banerjee’, which triggered the violent confrontation between the two groups.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are monitoring the situation in the area to prevent further escalation. The clash has heightened political tension in the locality, with both sides trading allegations over the cause of the violence.