West Bengal Police have arrested five people in connection with the alleged assault on Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee during his visit to Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas district, officials said on Sunday.
The incident, which triggered a major political controversy across the state, took place when Abhishek Banerjee visited the area to meet families reportedly affected by post-election violence. During the visit, protesters allegedly hurled stones, eggs, and slippers at the TMC leader, while videos circulating online showed scenes of chaos and heavy security deployment.
What Happened In Sonarpur?
According to reports, Banerjee was surrounded by a group of protesters shortly after arriving in Sonarpur South on Saturday. The TMC leader later alleged that the attack was “pre-planned” and claimed that a brick struck near his eye during the violence.
Visuals from the scene showed protesters shouting slogans and throwing objects as security personnel escorted the MP away from the crowd. Banerjee accused the BJP of orchestrating the attack, while BJP leaders denied involvement and described the protests as an expression of public anger against the TMC.
Five Arrested, Probe Underway
Police officials confirmed that five individuals have so far been arrested in connection with the assault. Investigators are examining video footage, eyewitness accounts, and social media clips to identify additional suspects allegedly involved in the violence.
Security has also been tightened in parts of South 24 Parganas following the incident amid fears of fresh political clashes.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of all those arrested, and further investigations are ongoing.
Political Reactions Intensify
The incident sparked strong reactions from several opposition leaders within the INDIA bloc. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the attack, stating that “political differences can never justify violence.” Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and several other opposition leaders also criticised the incident and expressed support for Banerjee.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reacted sharply to the assault and accused the BJP of promoting “politics of violence.” The TMC leadership claimed the incident reflected a deteriorating political atmosphere in the state following the recent Assembly elections.
The BJP, however, rejected the allegations and accused the TMC of attempting to gain political sympathy from the episode.
Rising Political Tensions In Bengal
The Sonarpur assault has further intensified political tensions in West Bengal, where allegations of post-election violence, intimidation, and clashes between rival party workers have continued since the conclusion of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Abhishek Banerjee, who serves as TMC national general secretary and is considered one of the party’s top strategists, has emerged as a central figure in the ongoing political confrontation between the TMC and BJP in the state.
With arrests now underway and political reactions escalating, the Sonarpur incident is likely to remain at the centre of Bengal’s political debate in the coming days.
