“They wanted to kill me”: Abhishek Banerjee blames BJP after violent attack in Sonarpur

Trinamool Congress National General Secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee on Saturday directly blamed the BJP for a violent attack he faced while visiting the family of a party worker killed in alleged post-poll violence in Sonarpur. Emerging with torn clothes, broken spectacles, and visible signs of assault, Banerjee told reporters: "They wanted to kill me." ## What happened during the Sonarpur visit Banerjee was visiting the family of Sanju Karmakar, a Trinamool worker who was allegedly killed in post-poll violence, when the attack occurred. The MP was confronted by a mob that hurled stones and eggs at him, leaving him visibly injured. "The people of Sonarpur welcomed me. None of the local residents were involved in this attack," Banerjee alleged. "The BJP had deliberately infiltrated outsiders into this area. This was planned in advance." ## Intelligence warning before the attack The Trinamool leader claimed that he had received intelligence warnings before arriving in Sonarpur, suggesting that authorities were aware of potential threats to his safety. Banerjee said the entire incident was captured on camera, indicating that there is visual evidence of the assault. ## Political reactions to the attack The attack on Banerjee drew sharp condemnation from opposition parties, with leaders describing it as a reflection of the current political climate in West Bengal. "The whole incident has been captured on camera," Banerjee said, emphasizing that the evidence would support his allegations against the BJP. ## What remains unclear Several questions remain unanswered following the attack: - Whether any arrests have been made in connection with the assault - The exact sequence of events leading up to the attack - What specific intelligence warnings Banerjee received - Whether the BJP has responded to Banerjee's allegations ## What happens next Banerjee's accusation is likely to escalate political tensions in West Bengal, with the Trinamool Congress expected to demand a thorough investigation into the attack. The incident may also lead to increased security measures for political leaders in the state. The Trinamool Congress is expected to raise the matter with election authorities and demand action against those responsible for the assault.