‘Rulers became killers, shame on you BJP’: Mamata Banerjee hits out over alleged attack on Abhishek Banerjee

Former Chief Minister of West Bengal and TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee on Saturday strongly reacted to the alleged attack on Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee during his visit to Sonarpur, accusing the BJP of fostering violence and targeting opposition leaders.

Taking to X, Banerjee wrote, "RULERS BECAME KILLERS. SHAME ON YOU BJP."

Her remarks came after Abhishek Banerjee faced protests and an alleged assault while visiting Sonarpur to meet the family of a party worker who was reportedly affected by post-poll violence.

Also Read | Abhishek Banerjee faces protest in Sonarpur, eggs thrown; shirt torn amid chaos

Abhishek Banerjee faces protests in Sonarpur

According to reports, Banerjee was met by protesters as he entered Sonarpur. Demonstrators allegedly surrounded him, raised slogans against him and hurled eggs during the protest.

Black flags were also shown near Kamalgazi as his convoy made its way to the residence of the party worker. The situation escalated when Banerjee reached the locality where the party worker lived. His vehicle was reportedly blocked by protesters, forcing him to get out and attempt to continue his journey on a motorcycle.

Amid the chaos, allegations emerged that Banerjee was physically assaulted by people in the crowd. Reports also claimed that his shirt was torn during the incident.

Security personnel reportedly made him wear a helmet while moving through the area as a precautionary measure.

Also Read | ‘What is happening now in Bengal?’ Derek O’Brien questions security, seeks answers from HM after Abhishek faces violent protests

Abhishek Banerjee vows legal action

Reacting to the incident, Banerjee said he would move the courts and seek legal recourse.

"I will move the High Court and the Supreme Court over this incident. In the last 15 years, such an incident has never happened. I do not expect any security from this government. Bulldozers are brought in overnight, but I do not expect protection. I will stand by the victim's family," he said.

Derek O'Brien questions security arrangements

Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien also reacted to the incident, alleging that Abhishek Banerjee's life was put at risk during the Sonarpur visit and questioning the security arrangements in place.

Taking to X, O'Brien wrote, "WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW IN BENGAL The Lok Sabha Leader of the second largest Opposition party @AITCofficial went to visit the family of a person murdered by BJP in post poll violence. @abhishekaitc was lynched and attacked by a few BJP supporters. Life at risk. Where are the police ? Why was security withdrawn on the day of counting ? Let the Home Minister answer."

Opposition leaders condemn incident

The incident triggered reactions from several opposition leaders across the country.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav condemned the alleged attack, calling it "utterly condemnable" and alleging a "major conspiracy" behind the incident.

Also Read | ‘Utterly condemnable!’ Akhilesh Yadav alleges 'major conspiracy' after attack on Abhishek Banerjee

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the alleged lack of security and called for immediate steps to ensure the safety of opposition leaders, stating that political differences can never justify violence.

The alleged attack on Banerjee has since sparked a political row, with opposition parties demanding accountability and raising questions over the security arrangements during his Sonarpur visit.