Malda, Sept. 22 -- Twelve people, including Mamata All India Trinamool Congress Panchayat member Ripon Barman, were arrested following a clash over an old dispute at Naldubi in Mangalbari area of Old Malda on Monday night. The accused, six men and six women, were produced before the Malda district court on Tuesday, where police sought seven days' custody for interrogation.
Tension erupted after BJP's former panchayat election candidate Milan Ghosh and four other BJP workers were allegedly attacked with sharp weapons. Ghosh was intercepted near Mangalbari railway gate and attacked with a sickle, leaving him seriously injured.
Family members who went to Barman's residence after learning about the attack were allegedly assaulted, with some sustaining injuries. As news spread, local residents surrounded Barman's house and protested. A shop, a four-wheeler and an auto-rickshaw were allegedly vandalised.
Police said they were investigating the assault and vandalism. A police contingent led by Additional Superintendent of Police Abhishek Ray reached the spot and brought the situation under control.
"The BJP candidate was attacked with a sharp weapon, while protesting family members were also injured," alleged BJP panchayat member Shibu Ghosh, demanding action against those responsible.
Barman denied the allegations and said he was framed. "Those who created the trouble are all TMC people who became BJP after May 4. It was a conspiracy to implicate me. My house and vehicles were also vandalised," he said. BJP MP Khagen Murmu said: "This incident proves that the TMC remains the TMC. All the accused must be arrested." Police said further investigation would determine the exact sequence of events in detail and responsibility.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.