Cooch Behar, Sept. 15 -- Political activity intensified in Cooch Behar after former TMC, now the NCPI MP Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia returned to his Sitai residence under police security early Sunday, nearly a month after staying away from home.

Basunia reached home around 5 am on Sunday, but his return was followed by protests by a section of local residents outside his residence. The situation remained tense, prompting the deployment of central forces and Sitai police in front of his house on Monday night to prevent any untoward incident.

The developments took another turn after Basunia told reporters at a press conference on Monday that he would join the BJP before the Durga Puja. Later that night, protests were held again outside his residence.

Basunia left Sitai on Tuesday and returned to his residence in Cooch Behar. Sources said he was expected to leave for Delhi from there. However, Basunia did not respond to phone calls seeking his reaction to the developments.

The protests outside the MP's residence on two consecutive days have triggered fresh speculation in political circles, particularly over the reasons behind the renewed demonstrations following his return and whether they have any political connection.

Meanwhile, newly reappointed Cooch Behar District Congress president Biswajit Sarkar returned from Kolkata on Tuesday. Party workers and supporters gathered at New Cooch Behar railway station to welcome him with bouquets and garlands. He later travelled in an open car in a procession to the District Congress office.

Addressing a press conference there, Sarkar thanked the Congress state and central leadership for reappointing him to the post. He also launched attacks on the BJP and questioned Cooch Behar South MLA and BJP district vice-president Biraj Basu's interest in municipal affairs.

"There are questions about the reason for Biraj Basu showing so much 'excitement' about the municipality. Questions are also being raised about his relationship with the municipality," Sarkar said.

Reacting to the Congress leader's remarks, Basu said he did not wish to comment on the Congress.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.