The killing of Hafizul Sheikh, a BJP worker, in West Bengal's Nadia district has sparked controversy and raised concerns about political violence in the region. Here's what we know:
- Hafizul Sheikh, who had recently joined the BJP, was shot in the head by an unidentified assailant at a tea stall after the polling for the last phase of Lok Sabha elections concluded.
- The police have identified the attacker and are currently searching for him. Both Sheikh and the attacker reportedly had criminal records.
- Contrary to earlier reports, the police have clarified that Sheikh was not beheaded but his head was disfigured due to bullet shots.
- Sheikh's family has alleged that he was killed because of his affiliation with the BJP. This incident has further highlighted concerns about violence against political workers in West Bengal.
- The BJP has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and CPI(M) of being responsible for the attack on its workers. Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT cell head, condemned the killing in a social media post, alleging that Sheikh's murder was a result of his efforts to bring minorities into the BJP fold.
- Malviya also cited instances of alleged violence against Muslims who did not vote for the TMC, suggesting a pattern of intimidation and coercion in the region.
The incident underscores the tense political climate in West Bengal and raises questions about the safety and security of political workers, regardless of their affiliations.
