KOLKATA: The elderly parents of deceased Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker Sanju Karmakar have been forced to flee their home in Sonarpur, on Kolkata's southeastern fringe, following a mob attack on party MP Abhishek Banerjee during a visit to the family home on Saturday. The attack has heightened fears of reprisals in the politically charged area.
Relocation of the Parents
Karmakar's parents, who had been living alone since the death of their 40-year-old unmarried son, were moved from their home in Sonarpur to their married daughter's residence in Kalikapur, off Kolkata's busy EM Bypass corridor, late Saturday night. The relocation came shortly after security forces escorted Banerjee from Karmakar's house following the attack. The parents were left vulnerable and fearful for their safety in the tense atmosphere.
Family's Plea for Security
Karmakar's sister, Sangita Pramanik, expressed deep concern over the situation. She stated, "When the party's national general secretary gets assaulted and local councillors and TMC workers are living in fear, we are insignificant. How can I leave my parents there without any assurance of security?" She urged the authorities to provide protection for her parents, emphasizing the intimidating environment that persists in the area.
Background of the Incident
Banerjee revealed that Karmakar was assaulted a day after the May 4 election results, suffered for several days, and was later hospitalized, where he died. He advised the parents to move elsewhere temporarily for their safety. Sangita added that her brother was attacked on May 5, a day after the BJP ended TMC's 15-year stint in government. She noted that few locals were willing to accompany him to the hospital due to fear of repercussions.
Political Allegations and Denials
The TMC alleged that Karmakar was a victim of post-poll violence carried out by BJP-backed assailants. However, BJP functionaries and some residents claimed that Karmakar died from a medical emergency, possibly a brain stroke, and that his family never filed a complaint linking the death to political violence. Some residents also suggested that his death could be related to drug use or a property dispute, but the family and TMC dismissed these claims as baseless.
The incident has further escalated tensions in the region, with both parties trading accusations. The safety of the bereaved family remains a pressing concern, as they seek justice and security in the aftermath of the tragic events.
