FIR Against TMC’s Behala Paschim Candidate Ratna Chattopadhyay, Six Others in Vandalism Case

Kolkata Police has registered an FIR against Ratna Chattopadhyay, the Trinamool Congress candidate from Behala Paschim Assembly constituency, along with six others in connection with alleged vandalism during campaigning in the Parnasree area of south Kolkata.

The case was registered on April 5 following complaints of disturbances in the locality ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls. Police officials said that Chattopadhyay was allegedly found indulging in acts of vandalism on Sunday, prompting authorities to initiate an investigation to establish the sequence of events and fix accountability.

So far, six persons have been arrested for their alleged direct involvement in the incident, including one individual named in the FIR. Authorities stated that further probe is underway to determine the roles of all those accused in the case.

The complaint was filed by BJP leader Manoj Halder, who alleged that TMC workers wrongfully restrained him and others, assaulted one of his associates, and stole laptops and other materials from their party office. He also claimed that the attackers damaged flags and banners outside the office, leading to tensions in the area.

Separately, BJP candidate Indranil Khan also lodged a complaint, alleging that TMC workers vandalised the party’s election office. The allegations have intensified the political clash between the two parties during the high-stakes election period.

Adding a new dimension to the case, reports suggest that videos of the alleged vandalism have surfaced, further escalating the situation and drawing public attention.

An official from the Election Commission of India said a detailed report has been sought from district authorities, warning that any violation of the Model Code of Conduct would invite strict action under the law.

There has been no immediate response from Chattopadhyay or the TMC regarding the allegations.

Polling in the constituency, located in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, is scheduled for April 29, making the incident politically significant in the ongoing election season.