Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Malda North, Khagen Murmu, remains under treatment in the critical care unit of a private hospital in Siliguri after being brutally attacked during a visit to the flood-affected areas of North Bengal on Monday. Although his physical condition has not deteriorated significantly, doctors have described his condition as serious and a final decision on shifting him to AIIMS Delhi may be taken based on medical advice.
Murmu, along with Siliguri MLA Shankar Ghosh, was assaulted by a mob while inspecting flood-hit areas in Nagrakata. A video that surfaced after the incident showed Murmu bleeding profusely from his nose and mouth, his handkerchief and towel soaked in blood, while MLA Ghosh appeared injured beside him.
According to Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari, Murmu has sustained a fractured bone below his eye, requiring immediate surgery. “His condition is worrying. The bone below his eye is seriously injured. He will have to undergo surgery,” Adhikari said.
Doctors are yet to decide whether the operation will be conducted in Siliguri or elsewhere. Several medical tests are being carried out before the next course of action is finalised.
Meanwhile, MLA Shankar Ghosh’s condition has improved. He is reportedly out of danger, though his MRI scan scheduled for Tuesday afternoon will determine when he can be discharged.
Governor CV Ananda Bose, who cut short his puja holiday and flew to North Bengal from Kerala, visited Mrmum and inquired about his health condition.
Eyewitnesses claim that a group of people attacked them with sticks, shoes and stones, allegedly picked up from a nearby river. Murmu sustained a head injury and both leaders were rushed to the hospital.
So far, no arrests have been made in connection with the attack. The BJP has lodged a complaint against eight individuals, accusing Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers of orchestrating the assault. However, even a day after the incident, the alleged attackers remain absconding.
Also read: North Bengal floods: Mamata offers ₹5L aid, jobs to victims’ kin
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