Tensions escalated on Tuesday as the All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-affiliated individuals of attacking its office in Tripura. This incident occurred shortly after the BJP alleged that TMC had targeted its Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in West Bengal.
TMC released a video purportedly showing a group vandalizing their office, although the Times of India could not independently verify its authenticity. In a statement on X, the party condemned the assault, describing it as “an open assault on democracy.” TMC further stated that when those in power resort to violence to silence their opponents, it signifies not strength, but fear and moral bankruptcy. They emphasized that the BJP’s actions contradict its claims of “saving democracy” and asserted that while offices may be destroyed and workers intimidated, the spirit of resistance among TMC workers and citizens advocating for justice would remain unbroken. The party plans to send a delegation to Agartala on October 8.
In a parallel incident, the BJP reported that its MLA, Manoj Kumar Oraon, was allegedly attacked by TMC supporters in Alipurduar while distributing flood relief materials. This assault followed an earlier attack on two senior BJP leaders by a mob in the neighboring Jalpaiguri district. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the violence, stating, “The manner in which our Party colleagues, including a sitting MP and MLA, were attacked in West Bengal for serving the people affected by floods and landslides is outright appalling.” He criticized the TMC’s insensitivity and the deteriorating law and order situation in the state, urging BJP workers to continue assisting with ongoing rescue operations.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met with BJP MP Khagen Murmu, who has been reported to have high blood sugar, wishing him a speedy recovery and acknowledging the situation.
