The BJP has denied any involvement in the August 9 attack on former chief minister Mamata Banerjee’s convoy and condemned the violence. West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said the party had no role in the incident and maintained that those responsible should face appropriate legal action.

State minister Agnimitra Paul also denounced the attack, saying that assaulting or manhandling political opponents could not be justified. She said anyone engaging in such conduct while claiming to represent the BJP was acting wrongly and should not remain associated with the party. Paul added that such incidents damaged West Bengal’s public image.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari defended the security arrangements made for Mamata and said police had provided her with adequate protection as a former chief minister. He questioned why she attempted to visit the bereaved family despite its reported reluctance to meet her. According to Adhikari, the family primarily wanted the circumstances surrounding Birju Keot’s death to be established.

Also Read: Mamata Banerjee Alleges Attack On Car Near Kolkata, Says "Could Have Died"

Mamata’s convoy was surrounded by protesters while she was travelling to meet Keot’s family. Protesters reportedly smeared mud on her vehicle and threw water bottles, shoes and stones while raising slogans against her. Mamata alleged that large stones were thrown in the presence of police personnel and claimed officers failed to protect her adequately.

Keot, the husband of former Kanchrapara municipal councillor Jenny Sharma, had been arrested on extortion-related charges and remanded to police custody. He was taken to hospital after his condition deteriorated and was declared dead. Sharma alleged that her husband had been tortured in custody, while police maintained that he suffered a heart attack.

TMC leaders blamed BJP workers for the convoy attack, with MP Kalyan Banerjee describing it as an attempt to kill Mamata. The BJP rejected the allegation and called for action against those responsible. Adhikari visited Keot’s family on August 10 and announced a government job for his wife as political tensions continued over the death and subsequent violence.

Also Read: Mamata Banerjee To Participate In CJP Protest, Saugata Roy Named Deputy Leader