Post-Election Turmoil in Bengal, Political Realignments in Tamil Nadu as Congress Backs TVK

TMC offices attacked across West Bengal as security personnel injured in firing; Congress extends support to Vijay-led TVK for government formation in Tamil Nadu

Violence Erupts in Bengal After Election Results

Post-election violence has gripped several parts of West Bengal, with attacks on Trinamool Congress offices and security personnel reported from multiple districts.

In the Bamangheri area of Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas district, miscreants opened fire on a patrol team comprising police and central forces late Wednesday night. Five security personnel were injured in the attack, including the officer-in-charge of Nazat police station, a constable, a woman police officer, and two CRPF personnel. All injured were initially taken to Minakhan Rural Hospital before being referred to Kolkata for advanced treatment.

Security agencies recovered a bag filled with bombs from the spot during subsequent investigation.

TMC Office Bulldozed in Kolkata

In Kolkata’s New Market area, a mob used a bulldozer to demolish a TMC party office, also damaging nearby shops. The TMC shared video footage of the incident on X, claiming that BJP’s “parivartan” has arrived and brought bulldozers with it.

Similar attacks were reported from Jagatballavpur, Howrah, Siliguri, and Berhampore, where TMC offices were set on fire or vandalised. In South 24 Parganas, stones were thrown at the office of TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

Security has been withdrawn from Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata residence ‘Shantiniketan’, with visuals showing an empty security post outside the premises.

A BJP worker, Madhu Mandal, died after being beaten in New Town area, police confirmed. Meanwhile, TMC leader Abir Sheikh was found with his throat slit in Birbhum district.

The Election Commission has directed strict action against those involved in violence and ordered enhanced patrolling across affected areas.

Congress Backs TVK for Government Formation in Tamil Nadu

In a significant political development, the Congress party has decided to support TVK chief Vijay in his bid to form the government in Tamil Nadu.

A late-night emergency meeting of the Tamil Nadu Congress Political Affairs Committee was held online Tuesday, with senior leaders from Delhi participating. The decision to support Vijay was taken unanimously.

Congress stated that the mandate in Tamil Nadu favours a secular government, and the party will not allow the BJP or its allies to come to power under any circumstances.

TVK Lodges 108 MLAs at Hotel, Needs 10 More

TVK has lodged its 108 MLAs-elect at a hotel in Chengalpattu, Mahabalipuram, as it seeks support from other parties to reach the majority mark of 118 in the 234-member assembly.

Congress has 5 MLAs, while PMK has 4. CPI and CPI(M) have won 2 seats each. DMK has secured 59 seats and AIADMK 47 seats. Vijay had earlier sought Congress support, and the party’s backing gives him 113 MLAs, still five short of majority.

DMK Criticises Congress, AIADMK Keeps Options Open

DMK spokesperson T K S Elangovan criticised Congress for backing TVK, calling it “backstabbing” and warning that such political moves could further weaken the party nationally.

“Congress is making similar alliances in many states but is losing ground everywhere,” Elangovan said.

AIADMK national spokesperson Kovai Sathyan said the decision now rests with TVK chief Vijay. AIADMK leader CV Shanmugam indicated the party would take a decision on supporting TVK after internal discussions.

Kerala CM Race Heats Up

In Kerala, where the Congress-led UDF alliance has emerged victorious, a tussle has begun over the chief minister selection. Three names are under discussion: Opposition leader VD Satheesan, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala.

CPI-M leader and outgoing chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has reached the party office for a meeting to review election results.