The Election Commission has requested a report from the Kolkata Police Commissioner regarding the lack of use of central forces during the clashes between BJP and Trinamool Congress workers at Girish Park yesterday, while BJP supporters were en route to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally at the Brigade Parade Ground. Eight police personnel and several supporters from both sides were injured. Tamoghn Ghosh, the BJP's North Kolkata district president, was hospitalized after being struck by a brick. State Minister Shashi Panja alleged vandalism and assault, but did not file a complaint. The Kolkata Police registered a suo moto case. The State Police said that four people have been arrested so far, including three BJP workers from Baranagar.
Yesterday, BJP workers staged a protest outside the Barahnagar police station, led by BJP leader Sajal Ghosh, condemning the arrests. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar alleged that close associates of State Minister Shashi Panja were behind the attack, claiming it was an attempt to disrupt the rally due to the massive turnout.
Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari accused the police of preventing BJP workers across the state from attending the rally, claiming that at least 12 were injured. On the other hand, Minister Shashi Panja told reporters that she was the target of an unprecedented attack, emphasizing that even women were not spared.