Angry mob vandalises TMC leader's house, sets fire over corruption allegations

Tension erupted in Bankura's Ghutgoria area on Friday after an angry crowd allegedly vandalised the residence of Gram Panchayat Pradhan Ganesh Mandal and set fire to part of the property. According to local sources, a large number of people gathered outside the house at around 10 am before forcibly entering the premises. The crowd allegedly broke locks, damaged doors and windows, threw bricks at the house, vandalised the garden area, and set fire to the courtyard. Family members were reportedly present inside the residence during the incident. Police have launched an investigation into the vandalism and arson and have increased surveillance in the area to prevent any further escalation.

A section of local residents alleged that the protest stemmed from long-standing dissatisfaction over the distribution of benefits under various government schemes, including housing projects, road construction works, and other developmental initiatives. According to the allegations, resentment had been building in the area for an extended period and eventually led to Friday's unrest. The incident has also triggered political reactions, with some opposition figures alleging growing public anger over the functioning of the local panchayat, while supporters of the Panchayat Pradhan have described the attack as a planned attempt to intimidate him.

Ganesh Mandal, the Pradhan of Ghutgoria Gram Panchayat, alleged that a group of people suddenly attacked his residence and damaged property inside the house. He stated that any grievances could have been addressed through discussion and described the attack as unlawful. Mandal said he had filed a complaint with the administration. Police officials said an inquiry is underway to identify those involved in the vandalism and determine the circumstances that led to the incident.