Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has reacted sharply to the killing of an aide of West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, questioning the role of the Union Home Ministry and demanding accountability over the incident.
Speaking to reporters, Yadav said the responsibility for maintaining law and order ultimately lies with the Home Minister, and asked how such a serious incident could take place despite security arrangements. He said the government must explain the circumstances under which the aide was killed and whether adequate protection was provided.
“The Home Minister is responsible. He should be asked how this happened,” Yadav said, adding that rising political violence reflects a deeper failure in ensuring safety for political workers across states.
The incident has triggered political tension in West Bengal, with the BJP alleging that the state administration failed to protect opposition leaders and their associates. Party leaders have demanded a high-level investigation into the killing and immediate arrests of those involved.
On the other hand, ruling party representatives have maintained that law and order is a state subject and urged against politicising the incident before a proper investigation is completed. They also said police have already begun probing the case and assured that the guilty will be brought to justice.
Akhilesh Yadav’s remarks come amid an already charged political atmosphere in West Bengal following the recent Assembly elections and continuing allegations of post-poll violence in several districts. Opposition parties have repeatedly raised concerns over targeted attacks on political workers and growing tensions in the state.
Yadav also used the opportunity to criticise what he called a “pattern of weakening democratic safety” in the country, arguing that political violence should not become a normal occurrence. He called for stronger protection mechanisms for elected representatives and party workers, especially in sensitive states.
The killing has also sparked broader national debate, with leaders from multiple parties expressing concern over rising incidents of political clashes. While investigations are underway, the incident has further intensified the confrontation between the ruling party and opposition groups over governance and security issues in West Bengal.
