Kolkata, India — Tensions flared in central Kolkata on Sunday as clashes broke out between supporters of the Narendra Modi and workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party and All India Trinamool Congress ahead of the Prime Minister’s rally in the city.
The violence occurred near Girish Park in central Kolkata when BJP supporters, chanting slogans in favor of Modi, were heading toward the rally venue. According to reports, stones were suddenly thrown at them from nearby areas, triggering a confrontation between BJP and TMC workers.
During the clash, stones were reportedly hurled from both sides and physical scuffles followed. One police officer and a BJP leader were injured in the violence. Police personnel were quickly deployed to the area to bring the situation under control.
Meanwhile, Shashi Panja, a minister in the Government of West Bengal, alleged that BJP workers attacked her residence during the unrest. She claimed that the doors, windows, and glass panels of her house were damaged and accused BJP supporters of carrying out the vandalism.
The BJP, however, blamed TMC supporters for provoking the clash by attacking their rally procession.
Later in the day, addressing the rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the government led by Mamata Banerjee. He accused the West Bengal administration of encouraging illegal infiltration and failing to maintain law and order in the state.
Security in and around the rally venue was significantly tightened following the incident as authorities sought to prevent further disturbances.