Murder Of Chandranath Rath Rekindles Focus On Of Deaths Linked To Suvendu Adhikari Associates

The killing of Chandranath Rath has triggered fresh political debate in West Bengal and renewed attention on a series of deaths involving close associates of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari over the last 13 years. Rath, a former Indian Air Force officer and trusted aide of Adhikari, was shot dead earlier this week in North 24 Parganas district, sending shockwaves through the state’s political circles.

According to investigators, Rath was travelling in an SUV near Madhyamgram when unidentified assailants intercepted his vehicle and opened fire at close range. Police sources said the attackers fled immediately after the shooting, while preliminary investigations suggested the murder may have been planned in advance. Authorities are currently examining CCTV footage, ballistic evidence and vehicle records to identify those responsible for the attack.

The murder has intensified political tensions in West Bengal at a sensitive time, coming soon after the BJP’s victory in the Assembly elections. Senior BJP leaders alleged that Rath’s killing was politically motivated and accused rivals of creating an atmosphere of violence in the state. The ruling Trinamool Congress, however, rejected the allegations and demanded a fair and impartial investigation into the incident.

Following the attack, the state police formed a Special Investigation Team, while the Criminal Investigation Department also joined the probe. Security agencies are conducting raids in several districts and questioning multiple suspects as part of the investigation. Police officials indicated that the nature of the attack suggested the involvement of professional shooters.

Rath had emerged as one of Adhikari’s closest political associates in recent years. After serving in the Indian Air Force for nearly two decades, he became actively involved in politics and worked closely with Adhikari on BJP organisational matters and election strategy in Bengal. Party workers described him as a dependable aide who handled several important assignments during election campaigns.

The incident has also revived memories of earlier deaths involving people associated with Adhikari. Reports indicate that at least three individuals connected to the BJP leader died under controversial or unexplained circumstances over the past decade. In 2013, Pradip Jha, who worked as Adhikari’s personal assistant, died in a case that initially sparked suspicion before investigators reportedly ruled out foul play.

Another incident occurred in 2018 when Subhabrata Chakraborty, a police security officer attached to Adhikari, was found dead. Authorities later described the case as suicide, though questions continued to be raised in political circles. In subsequent years, another associate linked to Adhikari’s political network also reportedly died unexpectedly, adding to speculation surrounding repeated tragedies involving individuals close to the BJP leader.

Political observers say Rath’s killing is likely to further deepen tensions between the BJP and Trinamool Congress in Bengal, where allegations of political violence have frequently dominated public discourse. BJP leaders have claimed that party workers and supporters continue to face threats and intimidation, while the Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP of politicising criminal incidents for electoral advantage.

Meanwhile, Adhikari expressed grief over Rath’s death and demanded strict action against those involved in the murder. He also called for a transparent investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and punished.

As the investigation progresses, the murder of Chandranath Rath has once again brought focus on the volatile political environment in West Bengal, where political rivalry and violence continue to remain major concerns.