West Bengal Latest News: The killing of Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant of senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, has added fresh tension to West Bengal’s already charged political landscape. The incident took place in Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas, just two days after the BJP’s reported strong electoral performance in parts of the state. Rath, a long-time aide, was shot on a public road and later died in hospital despite emergency treatment.
VIDEO | BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant Chandranath Rath was shot at from close range by unidentified assailants in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district on Wednesday night, sources said.
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on… pic.twitter.com/L1QAKFI60N
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 6, 2026
Who was Chandranath Rath
Chandranath Rath was known as a trusted back-end operator in Suvendu Adhikari’s political office and he had been associated with the leader for over a decade and played a key role in coordinating campaign logistics and administrative work. Sources suggest he remained closely involved in election-related planning in recent years, working behind the scenes rather than in public political spaces.
What Happened on the Madhyamgram Road?
- The incident occurred in Madhyamgram, North 24 Parganas, near Kolkata reported PTI
- Rath was traveling when his vehicle was reportedly intercepted
- Unidentified attackers opened fire on the public road
- He was shot at close range and sustained critical injuries
- His companion, identified as Buddhadeb was also injured
- Reports suggest he was hit by two to three bullets (head, chest and leg injuries mentioned in some accounts)
- Both victims were rushed to a private hospital where Rath later died
Two Bullets Fired, One Life Lost & One Person Injured
Initial police inputs confirm that at least two rounds were fired during the attack where some local reports, however, suggest multiple bullet wounds, indicating possible confusion in early eyewitness accounts. Rath succumbed to his injuries despite medical intervention, while his associate survived and is under treatment. The attack has intensified concerns over targeted political violence in the region.
How Has the Police Responded to the Shooting Case?
Police teams reached the site shortly after the incident and cordoned off the area. Senior officers began collecting forensic evidence and reviewing CCTV footage from nearby locations while investigators are also questioning locals and tracing vehicle movement in the area. As of now, no arrests have been made and the motive remains under investigation.
Unidentified assailants opened fire in Madhyamgram, killing Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant, Chandranath Rath, after his vehicle was reportedly halted and the driver accompanying him was also injured in the attack.
Chandranath Rath’s Association with BJP Leadership
Rath worked closely with Suvendu Adhikari, who has been one of the most prominent opposition figures in West Bengal. Adhikari, often referred to as a “giant killer” after defeating Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur by over 15,000 votes, has built a strong political base. Rath’s role was largely administrative, but his proximity to the leadership made him an important part of the inner machinery.
How Has the BJP Reacted to the Killing of Its Key Assistant?
The BJP has strongly condemned the incident, calling it another example of deteriorating law and order in the state. Party leaders have alleged targeted violence against their workers and supporters, especially in post-election scenarios while they have demanded a high-level investigation and accountability from the state administration.
Is the Incident Linked to Post-Election Tensions in West Bengal?
The killing comes against the backdrop of closely fought electoral battles. In Madhyamgram, Trinamool Congress candidate Rathin Ghosh won by a narrow margin of 2,399 votes, reflecting intense political competition. The BJP has pointed to rising intimidation claims, while rival parties have urged caution until the investigation concludes and the incident has once again highlighted how quickly political rivalry can spill into real-world violence in the state.
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Disclaimer: The article is based on early reports and available inputs. Facts may change as police investigation and official confirmations continue.
