Kolkata, May 7 (IANS) Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) President and MLA Humayun Kabir on Thursday condemned the killing of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant Chandranath Das in West Bengal and called for immediate action against those responsible, while also commenting on the ongoing political tensions and violence in the state.

Speaking to IANS, Kabir said the incident should not have taken place, especially after what he described as peaceful elections conducted in two phases.

“This should not have happened. The elections are over peacefully, and the voting was conducted smoothly in two phases. There should be no such violence or bloodshed. Whoever has committed this incident should be arrested and taken into custody as soon as possible,” he added.

Reacting to allegations of violence against BJP workers by Trinamool Congress supporters, Kabir said the atmosphere in Bengal had changed since the 2021 Assembly elections, when several BJP workers were allegedly attacked and displaced.

“That time is over now. In 2021, many BJP workers were killed and driven out of their homes. Today, the BJP is peaceful, but if someone targets their workers, they will definitely take action. No party worker should be murdered,” the AJUP Chief added.

Kabir also addressed speculation surrounding the absence of 11 MLAs from a recent Trinamool Congress legislators meeting, claiming that the BJP had not opened its doors to induct Trinamool leaders despite growing political discussions in the state.

“Even today, the BJP has not opened its doors to take in any Trinamool Congress MLA, former MLA, or leader. If the BJP had opened its doors, many people would have joined it,” the AJUP Chief remarked.

On Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s reported meeting with BJP MLAs in West Bengal, Kabir said the BJP remained a strong national force with influence across the country.

“The BJP is such a big party and a national party. It has its presence in 20 states. On the May 9, there will be an oath-taking ceremony, with many Chief Ministers and the Prime Minister attending,” he added.

In a lighter moment, Kabir also spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he would like to host him if given the opportunity.

“If I get a chance, I will definitely feed him ‘jhalmuri’,” the AJUP Chief said.

–IANS

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