Kolkata Police arrested BJP leader Rakesh Singh late Tuesday night for his alleged role in a brazen attack on the West Bengal Congress headquarters, Bidhan Bhavan, in central Kolkata. The incident, which took place on August 29, saw Singh and others deface cutouts of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, tear party flags, and cause widespread damage to the office premises, according to police reports.

Singh, who had been on the run since the attack, was tracked down to a housing complex in Tangra, a bustling area in eastern Kolkata. “We apprehended him after a meticulous search. He was hiding in Tangra and will face court today,” a senior police officer stated. The arrest comes after days of intense investigation, with authorities raiding Singh’s residence on Sunday night, only to find him absent. His son, Shivam Singh, was questioned multiple times and later detained in connection with the case.

The vandalism incident sparked outrage, with Congress leaders condemning the act as a “direct attack on democracy.” Eyewitnesses reported a group of individuals storming the Congress office, shouting slogans, and damaging property. Police sources confirmed Singh was caught on surveillance footage actively participating in the destruction.

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Adding fuel to the fire, Singh released a provocative video while in hiding, hurling verbal attacks at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and threatening police action. The video, which surfaced two days before his arrest, intensified the manhunt. “His defiance made it clear he was a key figure in orchestrating the attack,” the officer added.

The Kolkata Police have arrested several other suspects linked to the August 29 incident, but Singh’s capture marks a significant breakthrough. The BJP has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, while Congress leaders are demanding strict action against all involved. As the case unfolds, political tensions in West Bengal continue to simmer, with both parties trading accusations of inciting violence.

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