Violence erupts in Bengal's Jaynagar: Trinamool Congress leader murdered, alleged accomplice lynched in retaliation

Tensions escalated in pockets of Jaynagar, South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, following the killing of local Trinamool Congress leader and panchayat member Saifuddin Lashkar. Lashkar was shot by unidentified assailants while on his way to a local mosque for morning prayers. In the aftermath, a section of villagers, particularly those aligned with the ruling party, identified and severely beat two locals suspected of involvement in Lashkar's murder.

One individual was lynched on the spot, while police intervened to rescue the second. Clashes between groups ensued, resulting in the burning of at least 10 houses in the locality. A significant police presence was deployed to quell the violence, but tension persisted in the area.

 A political dispute emerged over the twin murders, with Trinamool Congress legislator Saokat Molla alleging that Lashkar's murder was orchestrated by anti-social elements with links to both the BJP and CPI(M). Molla claimed these elements aimed to create tension in the region, implicating Lashkar as a victim.

In contrast, CPI(M) central committee member Dr. Sujan Chakraborty contended that Lashkar's murder resulted from infighting within Trinamool Congress over control of illegal business handled by the deceased. Chakraborty accused ruling party members of selectively targeting CPI(M) supporters and torching their homes.

Senior BJP leader Rahul Sinha criticized the law and order situation in the area, attributing it to infighting within Trinamool Congress. Sinha argued that the ruling party was deflecting blame onto the BJP in the wake of the twin murders. The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order and investigate the complex circumstances surrounding the violent events in Jaynagar.