BJP Leader Claims Political Connection in Aide's Murder

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed that the murder of his personal assistant, Chandranath Rath, was linked to Rath's association with him. Adhikari was confident that the police would apprehend the culprits, naming contract killers as the assailants. Rath, a former Indian Air Force personnel, had no known political enmities.

The shooting took place in Madhyamgram, resulting in police efforts to track the perpetrators. A motorcycle allegedly used in the crime was recovered nearby, and several suspects have been detained. Adhikari affirmed the competence of the police, while criticizing past political interference.

Senior BJP figures paid respects to Rath as his body was taken for last rites. Adhikari dismissed the TMC's call for a CBI probe, urging that those responsible face capital punishment, though Rath's mother, a BJP activist, advocates for life imprisonment. Adhikari promised support for Rath's family.

(With inputs from agencies.)