Tensions flared during Congress candidate Adhir Chowdhury’s campaign rally in Berhampore, West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, as Trinamool Congress supporters chanted ‘go back’ at three different locations. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also set to hold a rally in the same area later in the day, prompting a significant deployment of Central forces and police to prevent any untoward incidents. Adhir Chowdhury, contesting for the Baharampur Assembly constituency, began his campaign on foot, accompanied by local Congress leaders and workers, with heightened security measures in place following previous unrest.
Amid his campaign, Chowdhury faced ‘go back’ slogans at various spots, including the Dayamoyee Kali Bari area, Dayanagar intersection, and Kandnagar Road areas, where Trinamool Congress workers staged protests. Despite the disruptions, law enforcement authorities managed to control the situation effectively. Notably, the West Bengal Police had taken action against certain Trinamool Congress members for obstructing Chowdhury’s campaign the previous day, reflecting the escalating tensions in the region.
Adhir Chowdhury, supported by his workers, encountered resistance from Trinamool Congress members as he entered ward number 19, prompting allegations of systematic obstacles and intimidation tactics by the opposition party. In response, a senior Congress leader accused the Trinamool Congress of resorting to violence due to fear of election outcomes. However, a local Trinamool Congress councillor dismissed these claims, labeling Chowdhury as a troublemaker bringing in outsiders to disrupt local harmony.
The situation further intensified as Adhir Chowdhury faced ‘go back’ chants from Trinamool leaders and workers on a separate occasion in Berhampore. The incident occurred when Chowdhury visited a nursing home to see an ailing district Congress leader, with the return journey marred by protests. Despite these challenges, the election campaign in Berhampore continues amidst heightened security measures and escalating tensions between the Congress and Trinamool Congress supporters.
