Midnapore: A clash between two groups in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur district turned deadly, leaving a 32 year old man dead and several others injured, as police investigate the circumstances behind the violence.
The incident took place in the Hatihalka area of Midnapore Sadar on Friday, September 25, with the violence reportedly centred around Kadamtala market. The deceased has been identified in reports as Samsher Khan, although some reports have referred to him as Samsher Biswas.
According to police related accounts, Khan was at a tea shop when an argument over politics escalated into a confrontation between two groups. The situation allegedly turned violent, with stones, sticks, iron rods and sharp edged weapons being used during the clash. Police said Khan suffered a serious head injury after allegedly being struck with an axe.
He was taken to Midnapore Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Several other people were also injured in the violence. Two injured persons were reportedly shifted to Kolkata on Saturday for further treatment.
Police have detained eight people in connection with the incident, while raids were continuing to locate others suspected of involvement. CCTV footage of the attack has also emerged and is being examined as investigators work to establish exactly how the violence unfolded and identify those responsible.
The incident has also triggered competing political claims. Some local BJP activists said Khan was associated with the party and alleged that the violence was linked to factional tensions following the appointment of Soumen Tiwari as the BJP’s new Midnapore organisational district president.
However, Tiwari has denied that Khan was a BJP worker. BJP district vice president Ajay Jana has called for an investigation and said those responsible should face action. Allegations have also been made by BJP figures that rival political groups may have been involved, but these claims have not been established by police.
The violence has left the Hatihalka area tense, prompting an increased police presence. Investigators are examining CCTV footage, statements from those involved and other evidence to determine the motive behind the clash and identify those responsible.
The investigation remains underway, while the competing claims over the deceased’s political affiliation and the motive behind the violence remain unresolved.
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