Mamata Banerjee Alleges Attack on Car, Says 'Could Have Died'

Attack on Convoy During Condolence Visit

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday alleged that her car was attacked with stones and shoes while she was travelling near Kolkata, stating that she "could have died" in the incident. The attack took place as her convoy was passing through an area during a visit to the residence of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker who had died in police custody.

Banerjee, who is also the TMC chief, said that protesters threw objects at her vehicle and smeared mud on it, forcing her to stop. The incident has sparked fresh political tension in the state, with the Chief Minister accusing opponents of orchestrating the attack.

What Happened on the Ground

According to reports, the Chief Minister's convoy faced a hostile reception as it approached the deceased worker's home. Eyewitness accounts and local media footage showed a crowd surrounding the vehicles, with some individuals throwing stones and shoes. Mud was also seen smeared on the car's exterior, indicating the intensity of the protest.

Banerjee was unharmed in the incident, but she described the situation as life-threatening. "They could have killed me," she told reporters after reaching a safe location. The Chief Minister's security personnel reportedly intervened to disperse the crowd and ensure her safety.

Context of the Visit

The visit was aimed at offering condolences to the family of the TMC worker, who died while in police custody. The death has triggered protests in the area, with locals demanding a thorough investigation. The Trinamool Congress has alleged foul play, while the opposition has accused the state government of failing to protect citizens.

Police have not yet confirmed the details of the attack, including the number of people involved or any arrests made. A senior officer said that an inquiry has been initiated, but no official statement has been released so far.

Political Reactions

The incident has drawn sharp reactions from political circles. TMC leaders condemned the attack, calling it a "cowardly act" and demanding action against those responsible. Opposition parties, however, have questioned the Chief Minister's account, suggesting that the protest was a spontaneous expression of public anger over the worker's death.

Banerjee accused her political rivals of instigating the crowd, though she did not name any specific party or individual. She asserted that the attack was planned and warned that such actions would not deter her from visiting affected families.

Security Concerns and Next Steps

The attack has raised questions about the security arrangements for the Chief Minister, especially during her visits to sensitive areas. The state police have been put on alert, and additional forces have been deployed in the region to prevent further escalation.

Meanwhile, the family of the deceased worker has appealed for calm, urging the administration to ensure a fair probe into the death. The government has promised a transparent investigation, but details about the post-mortem report or the exact cause of death have not been made public yet.

As tensions simmer, all eyes will be on the police inquiry and the political fallout. Banerjee is expected to address the media later, and her statements could shape the narrative in the coming days. For now, the focus remains on ensuring peace and accountability in the aftermath of this violent episode.