Dharmanagar has been plunged into fear and tension following consecutive incidents of political violence and alleged arson targeting opposition parties. The situation deteriorated sharply on Wednesday afternoon when a peaceful CPI(M) rally was attacked around 12:30 p.m., triggering widespread panic across the town.
According to local sources, a group of BJP supporters allegedly barged into the procession from behind, leading to chaos and leaving several CPI(M) leaders and workers seriously injured. Among the injured were senior leader and former MLA Amitabh Dutta, who was seen bleeding, along with Abhijit Dey and Ratan Roy. Eyewitnesses also reported that BJP supporters carrying party flags created disorder along the main road, intensifying fear among residents.
The attack on the rally was followed by another alarming incident as miscreants allegedly vandalised the District Congress office. Residents described the environment as “horrific,” with violence spreading rapidly. Public outrage grew as many accused the police of inaction, claiming officers stood by without intervening or assisting the injured during the disturbances.
These incidents came just hours after a late-night arson attempt on the century-old Dharmanagar District Congress office. Unidentified miscreants reportedly tried to set the office ablaze between 10:30 and 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Thanks to the swift response of the Dharmanagar Fire Service, major damage was averted.
When Congress workers inspected the premises on Wednesday morning, they found burnt national flags, damaged furniture, and multiple signs of attempted arson. Several flags placed outside were also allegedly set on fire. District Congress president Digbijoy Chakraborty blamed BJP workers for the attack, calling it an act of “vicious political vendetta.” He warned that despite such attempts, the party would not back down and might launch a larger movement if necessary.
In response, Congress members staged a road blockade at noon, followed by a protest rally across the town. Later, party leaders filed an FIR demanding stern action against the culprits. With tensions running high, residents have urged the authorities to restore peace, though police officials have yet to issue a formal statement.
