Ruling party Leader Babla Sarkar Shot Dead in West Bengal's Malda District

In a shocking incident, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Dulal Sarkar, popularly known as Babla Sarkar, was shot dead on Thursday in Malda district, West Bengal.
Sarkar, a TMC councillor from Ward 22 of English Bazar Municipality, succumbed to his injuries after being attacked in broad daylight.
Details of the Attack
Local sources reported that Babla Sarkar was en route to his factory after leaving the Trinamool Congress party office on Thursday morning when the fatal attack occurred.
Four assailants, riding two motorcycles, approached him from behind and fired four rounds. Sarkar was struck by three bullets, including one that hit his shoulder.
Reaction from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee confirmed Sarkar’s death during an administrative meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna. Expressing her deep grief, Banerjee held Malda District Police Superintendent Pradeep Kumar Yadav accountable for the incident, citing lapses in security arrangements.
She revealed that Sarkar had previously been under police protection, which was later withdrawn. “Our councillor in Malda has been killed today due to the lackadaisical approach of the district police superintendent. Babla was with me since the beginning,” Banerjee said.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Chief Minister described Sarkar as a “close associate” and a “very popular leader.”
A Legacy of Service
Banerjee highlighted Sarkar’s significant contributions to the Trinamool Congress from its inception, alongside his wife, Chaitali Sarkar. She called the incident a great personal loss and demanded swift action against the perpetrators.
“The culprits must be booked immediately,” she insisted, underscoring the need for justice. Condolences to the Family In her heartfelt message, Banerjee extended her condolences to Babla Sarkar’s family, particularly his wife Chaitali.
“I am so shocked and sad that I do not know how to convey my condolences. May God give Chaitali strength to survive and fight the battle,” she wrote.
Community in Mourning
The murder of Babla Sarkar has sent shockwaves through the local community and left the Trinamool Congress in mourning.
The incident highlights concerns about political violence in the region, with calls for accountability and enhanced security for public representatives. As investigations continue, Sarkar's death has cast a pall over Malda, raising urgent questions about law and order in West Bengal.