West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met BJP MP Khagen Murmu at a hospital in Siliguri on Monday evening, days after he suffered injuries during a local event. The Chief Minister assured him of proper medical treatment and ordered a fair probe into the incident.
During her visit, Mamata Banerjee interacted with Murmu and enquired about his recovery. She described the injury as “nothing very serious” but added that such attacks were unacceptable in a democratic society. The meeting came amid growing political tension between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in North Bengal.
Read More: Pradyot Criticises Delay in Tripura Village Committee Polls
Mamata’s Appeal for Calm and Cooperation
Addressing reporters after the hospital visit, Mamata Banerjee urged people to maintain peace and refrain from politicising the incident. She emphasised that violence has no place in democracy and that all political parties should work together to uphold harmony.
She further stated that the state administration is committed to ensuring law and order. “We have asked the police to investigate the incident thoroughly. If anyone is found guilty, strict action will follow,” Banerjee said.
Her visit was seen as an effort to bridge political differences and extend solidarity at a time when political clashes in North Bengal have been on the rise.
Attack on Khagen Murmu
BJP MP Khagen Murmu was reportedly attacked during a local programme in Siliguri last week. Eyewitnesses said unidentified miscreants assaulted him while he was addressing the gathering. Security personnel and local residents rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors treated him for minor injuries.
The attack sparked outrage among BJP supporters, who demanded immediate arrest of the culprits. BJP leaders alleged that the incident reflected the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. In response, the police launched an investigation and detained several suspects for questioning.
Political Reactions and Significance
The meeting between Mamata Banerjee and Khagen Murmu has drawn attention from both political camps. While BJP leaders welcomed the Chief Minister’s gesture, they also called for stronger action to prevent similar attacks. TMC leaders, meanwhile, said the Chief Minister’s visit demonstrated her commitment to democratic values and her willingness to ensure justice irrespective of political affiliations.
Analysts noted that Mamata Banerjee’s outreach to a BJP MP signals a softer political tone, especially ahead of the festive season when political clashes tend to rise. It also underscores her attempt to project an image of inclusivity and administrative fairness.
Ensuring Fair Investigation
The Chief Minister assured that the state police would conduct an impartial investigation. She emphasised that no one would be spared if found responsible. Officials have been directed to submit a detailed report on the incident within a week.
Police sources confirmed that they are reviewing CCTV footage from the venue and collecting witness statements. Preliminary investigations suggest that a scuffle broke out among local groups, which escalated into violence. However, officials are yet to determine whether the attack was politically motivated.
Mamata’s Broader Message of Tolerance
Mamata Banerjee’s hospital visit also carried a broader message of political tolerance. She reminded all parties that ideological differences should never lead to physical harm. “We may belong to different political ideologies, but humanity must come first,” she said.
Her statement was widely shared across social media platforms, where many appreciated her gesture of visiting a political opponent. Several citizens called it a sign of mature leadership, while others urged both parties to engage in constructive dialogue instead of confrontation.
Rising Political Clashes in North Bengal
In recent months, North Bengal has witnessed several incidents of political clashes involving workers of TMC, BJP, and other regional groups. Analysts attribute the rising tensions to competitive politics and deep-rooted rivalries in the region.
The state administration has increased police presence in sensitive areas and appealed to local leaders to cooperate in maintaining order. Officials have also scheduled meetings with district officers to review security arrangements during upcoming public gatherings.
BJP’s Response to the CM’s Visit
Reacting to Mamata Banerjee’s visit, BJP leaders said they appreciated her gesture but demanded stronger action. BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar stated, “We welcome the Chief Minister’s visit. However, we hope that such incidents do not repeat and the guilty are punished swiftly.”
Khagen Murmu, too, thanked Mamata Banerjee for visiting him. He said, “I appreciate the Chief Minister’s concern and the medical assistance provided. I hope the investigation will bring out the truth.”
Looking Ahead
The meeting between Mamata Banerjee and Khagen Murmu marks a rare moment of political civility in West Bengal’s often charged political atmosphere. Observers believe this incident could serve as a reminder of the need for unity and peace across party lines.
While tensions remain high in parts of North Bengal, the Chief Minister’s outreach is expected to ease hostilities and encourage cooperation between rival political camps. The administration’s focus will now be on completing the investigation promptly and ensuring justice.
Mamata Banerjee’s meeting with Khagen Murmu following the Siliguri attack highlights her commitment to peace, justice, and compassion beyond party boundaries. By personally visiting the injured MP and assuring him of medical care and fair investigation, she sent a strong message that violence must never overshadow democracy.
Her visit serves as a reminder that in a diverse political landscape, empathy and cooperation remain essential to maintaining harmony and trust among people.
Read More: Northern Assam Residents Demand Better Amenities and Development