TMC factional clash: Halut Kali Puja pandal vandalized, organizer severely injured in alleged attack

In Halut, West Bengal, a Kali Puja pandal organized by the Nabīn Sangha club was allegedly vandalized late, reportedly in connection with tensions between two Trinamool Congress (TMC) factions. The attack left one organizer, Samiran Saha, with severe injuries, including potential damage to his eyesight. Allegations have surfaced pointing toward followers of Ward 107 Councillor Lipika Manna as the perpetrators, who are accused of orchestrating the attack over a reported power struggle within the area.

According to eyewitnesses, a group of individuals, allegedly including Councillor Manna’s driver and several close associates, arrived at the pandal and began to vandalize the structure. Witnesses report that they destroyed chairs, tables, decorations, and lighting, leaving parts of the pandal in disarray. Saha and his wife were reportedly present at the scene and attempted to intervene, at which point they were allegedly assaulted. Saha’s injuries are described as critical, with damage reported to both eyes, raising concerns over his long-term recovery.

Local sources indicate that this incident may be linked to an ongoing dispute within the TMC. The Nabīn Sangha club, known for holding annual elections for its leadership, had recently chosen former Ward 107 Councillor Sushanta Ghosh to inaugurate this year’s Puja. Some club members claim that Councillor Manna’s faction had previously attempted to assert control over the club but had been unsuccessful. They allege that this year’s inauguration by Ghosh, a prominent figure in the local TMC, may have triggered the recent violence, as Manna’s supporters reportedly opposed his involvement.

Former Councillor Sushanta Ghosh, who served as Ward 107’s representative for 12 years, stated that he was made aware of the incident while he was in a different area. Ghosh confirmed that the Puja committee filed a complaint with local police, seeking a full investigation. He emphasized his longstanding relationship with the club, highlighting that his role as an invited guest for the Puja inauguration has been a tradition during his tenure.

Councillor Lipika Manna denied any involvement in or knowledge of the incident, stating that she had no prior information about the alleged attack. Manna commented that it is common for blame to be placed on political factions during disputes, adding that she has not received any official communication regarding the details of the incident. Local police are reportedly looking into the matter, and an investigation is expected to follow based on the complaint filed.