BJP Leader Suvendu Adhikari’s Close Aide Shot Dead Amid Post-Poll Violence in West Bengal

In a violent escalation following the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election results, Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant and close associate of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, was assassinated late Wednesday night in Madhyamgram.

MADHYAMGRAM, WB – The incident occurred just 48 hours after the declaration of election results, which saw high-stakes contests across the state. Rath, who had been a constant companion to the Leader of Opposition during his high-profile campaign, was targeted on Jessore Road while returning home.

"Rath was intercepted by eight masked assailants on four motorcycles. They opened fire at point-blank range as his car slowed down near the Doharia intersection. This appears to be a targeted execution." — Preliminary Investigative Report

Election Context & Targeted Attack

The murder has added fresh fuel to the allegations of widespread post-poll violence in West Bengal. Suvendu Adhikari, who reportedly arrived at the hospital shortly after the incident, has alleged that the killing was politically motivated to silence key organizational voices within the BJP.

Verified Incident Data

• Victim: Chandranath Rath (Executive PA to LoP)

• Location: Jessore Road, Madhyamgram, North 24 Parganas

• Timing: May 6, 2026, approx. 10:15 PM

• Injuries: Multiple gunshot wounds (Chest & Abdomen)

Official Investigation

The West Bengal State Police have confirmed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Security has been significantly tightened in the Madhyamgram area and outside the hospital where BJP supporters have gathered in large numbers demanding immediate arrests.

Forensic teams have seized the victim's vehicle and recovered several bullet casings from the crime scene. Police are currently analyzing real-time ground intelligence and CCTV feeds to identify the motorcycle-borne assailants who fled towards the Barasat area.