Opposition leaders across the country rallied behind Abhishek Banerjee on Sunday, condemning the attack on the Trinamool Congress leader during his visit to Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas and describing it as an assault on democratic values.
The incident took place on Saturday when Banerjee, the MP from Diamond Harbour and national general secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), visited the family of a party worker who was allegedly assaulted during post-poll violence in the district. During the visit, miscreants allegedly hurled bricks, eggs and shoes at the TMC leader, while his clothes were reportedly torn in the commotion.
The episode quickly escalated into a national political issue, drawing strong reactions from senior opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Hemant Soren and Akhilesh Yadav.
In a post on X, Gandhi condemned the attack, saying that an assault on a Member of Parliament was “not merely an assault on an individual, but an attack on the people who elected him and on democracy itself”.
Also read: Four arrested for attack on Abhishek Banerjee
He also accused the BJP of pursuing “politics of vendetta” and called for swift action against those responsible. Gandhi urged both the Centre and the West Bengal government to ensure the safety of elected representatives.
Responding to the support extended by opposition leaders, Banerjee thanked Gandhi and other INDIA bloc allies while launching a sharp attack on the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre.
Describing the incident as an example of “state-sponsored terrorism”, Banerjee alleged that dissenting voices were being systematically targeted and intimidated. He asserted that leaders associated with the INDIA alliance remained united in their commitment to protecting democratic institutions and constitutional values.
Referring to his participation in the all-party outreach under Operation Sindoor, Banerjee said he had represented India internationally on issues relating to terrorism and would not be deterred by attempts to silence him.
Meanwhile, police have arrested six people in connection with the incident. Security has been tightened in the area and an investigation is underway.
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