Kolkata, May 7, 2026 – West Bengal erupted in fury after Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, was gunned down in Madhyamgram late Wednesday, intensifying post-poll violence just days after BJP’s landslide Assembly win.
Unidentified bikers tailed Rath’s car in Doltala, firing four rounds at point-blank range. Three bullets struck – head, chest, neck. Driver Buddhadeb survived with injuries. Rath, 42, died at Mega City Hospital. Bullet-riddled car windows and recovered cartridges mark the ambush site.
BJP Slams TMC “Goondaraj”
Suvendu Adhikari roared: “This is TMC’s farewell gift after 15 years of loot. Chandranath died serving Bengal’s people – CBI probe now!” His brother Dibyendu demanded NIA intervention, alleging “targeted hit” post-BJP’s 207-seat sweep ending Mamata Banerjee’s reign.
DGP Siddh Nath Gupta confirmed one suspect vehicle seized – fake plates. “CCTV footage under scan; 2-3 assailants probed,” he said. No arrests yet, but BJP workers blocked roads, clashed with police in North 24 Parganas.
Post-Poll Bloodshed Timeline
- May 5: BJP's Bengal win (207/294 seats)
– May 6: Rath shot dead (3 bullets)
– Casualties: 2 more poll-related deaths
– Hotspots: Madhyamgram, Howrah, Hooghly
BJP claims 50+ attacks since results. CEC Gyanesh Kumar ordered immediate arrests amid vandalism reports. TMC denies involvement: “Law takes its course,” spokesperson Kunal Ghosh snapped.
Ground Zero Chaos
Madhyamgram seethed overnight. BJP cadres torched TMC offices; CRPF deployed. “Chandranath organised our booth wins – murderers roam free under Mamata!” cried local MLA candidate.
Social storm:
“Bengal’s red again with BJP blood #JusticeForChandranath” – @SuvenduBJP
“Post-poll revenge? Probe all angles” – @BengalWatchdog
“TMC goons’ last gasp” – @LotusRisingWB
National Echoes
Delhi BJP HQ condemned the “anarchy.” Adityanath vowed support: “Bengal BJP won’t bow.” Congress urged calm; Left called for judicial inquiry. Governor CV Ananda Bose summoned DGP amid “law-order collapse” fears.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Chandranath Rath, Suvendu PA |
| Location | Madhyamgram, N24 Parganas |
| Time | 9:30 PM, May 6 |
| Weapons | 4 shots, 3 hits |
| Status | 1 vehicle seized, probe on |
As probe intensifies, Bengal’s fragile peace teeters. Rath’s killing – first high-profile hit post-victory – tests new govt’s iron-fist promise. Will justice prevail or fuel endless feuds?
