Political violence escalates in Kolkata amid Lok Sabha elections

• Rising political violence mars Lok Sabha elections in Bengal, particularly in Kolkata
• BJP supporters attacked in Anandpur, South Kolkata, while a Trinamool supporter was beaten to death
• Incidents underscore the heated competition for victory in Bengal's 42 Lok Sabha seats, amidst scorching temperatures and escalating tensions

As the Lok Sabha elections unfold in West Bengal across seven phases, incidents of political violence are on the rise, particularly in Kolkata. Recent reports reveal two disturbing incidents: one involving an assault on BJP supporters in Anandpur, South Kolkata Lok Sabha Centre, and another resulting in the death of a Trinamool supporter in Baguiati, under Barasat Lok Sabha Centre.

The scorching temperatures in Kolkata, soaring to 42 degrees Celsius, seem to parallel the heated political atmosphere as parties vie for victory in the state's 42 seats. Late on Saturday night, Saraswati Sarkar, South Kolkata Kasba Mandal President, and her supporters were attacked while putting up posters in support of the BJP candidate in Anandpur. Sarkar sustained serious injuries and is currently hospitalized.

In another tragic incident, Sanjeev Das alias Patla was brutally beaten to death in the Arjunpur Paschimpara area of Baguiati police station. Allegedly, councilor Devraj Chakraborty instigated a conflict between two groups of party supporters, leading to the fatal attack on Patla. Family members claim he was attacked while sitting at a tea shop, sustaining severe injuries that proved fatal despite efforts to save him.

The incidents highlight the intensifying political activity and the growing concern over violence as parties compete for dominance in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.