Following BJP win 10 anti-Muslim attacks reported in Bengal
BJP leader and likely chief minister candidate Suvendu Adhikari, known for his anti-Muslim stance, has promised to work “only for the Hindus” who voted for him.
Reports of post-election unrest and isolated incidents of communal tension have emerged from parts of West Bengal following the 2026 Assembly elections, in which the Bharatiya Janata Party secured a decisive victory, ending the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress.
According to The Times of India, the electoral outcome triggered a wave of violence across the state, leaving at least four people dead and dozens injured, while party offices were reportedly vandalised in several districts amid clashes between rival political cadres.
Two deaths were reported in Kolkata within 24 hours. In Beleghata, Trinamool poll agent Biswajit Pattanaik, 45, was found injured outside his residence after stepping out following a phone call. Police suspect he may have been chased and fallen while attempting to escape, although his family has alleged that he was dragged out and assaulted.
The Siasat Daily reported multiple incidents of vandalism, intimidation and damage to property, allegedly involving supporters described as belonging to Hindutva groups, in several locations across the state.
In Chanderkuthi village in Cooch Behar, local reports claim that Muslim homes and belongings were targeted during post-poll violence. A video circulating on social media shows scenes of destruction, with individuals celebrating the BJP’s electoral victory.
Separately, in Dinhata town, an installation known as the “Taj Mahal selfie point” situated near a Durga temple was set on fire. The structure, which carried the message “I love Dinhata” and was intended as a local tourist attraction, was reportedly destroyed. Videos on social media show the structure engulfed in flames, with slogans being raised during the incident. Fire services were subsequently deployed to the site.
In Darjeeling district, reports indicate that a group entered a mosque in Jor Pokhari and hoisted a saffron flag, chanting “Jai Shri Ram”. The area lies close to the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary.
In North Dinajpur’s Dalkhola area, a Muslim-owned biryani shop was allegedly vandalised, with utensils and supplies damaged. Local accounts describe significant financial loss to the owner.
In Murshidabad, an Eidgah site was reportedly vandalised when a group entered the premises and damaged a temporary barricade while chanting religious slogans. According to reports, the site is a disputed Waqf property, with legal proceedings ongoing and a court directive in place to maintain the status quo.
Further reports from Bongaon in North 24 Parganas indicate that shopkeepers near a temple were asked to relocate, with videos circulating online showing verbal exchanges between workers and staff members regarding the presence of food establishments in the area. The Trinamool Congress shared one such video on social media platform X, stating that “the nightmare has already begun” and warning of potential restrictions on food practices and cultural expression.
In Kolkata’s New Market area, reports suggest that a political rally associated with the BJP brought down a Trinamool Congress party office structure using a bulldozer, accompanied by celebratory slogans and music. Eyewitness accounts indicate the presence of security personnel during the incident, though their level of intervention has been disputed. Claims regarding the demolition of additional shops have not been independently verified.
In Islampur, local reports state that attempts were made to rename “Masjid Para Road” as “Netaji Palli Road” following the election results, with videos showing individuals removing signage. Another public space, Siraj Udyan park, was also reportedly renamed during the same period.
Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari made remarks during post-election celebrations stating: “Nandigram ka Hindu janta phir mujhe jitaya. Waha musalmaan vote pura ka pura TMC ko mila. Yeh log bhot kattarvadi hai. Mai Nandigram ke Hindu ke liye kaam karunga.”
The election outcome marks a significant political shift in West Bengal, with the state now set to be governed by the same party in power at the Centre for the first time since 1972.
Vote share data reflects the scale of the change. The BJP’s vote share rose to around 45 per cent from 38 per cent in 2021, while the TMC’s declined to approximately 40.94 per cent from 48 per cent.
In terms of seats, the BJP increased its tally from 77 to 207, while the TMC’s representation fell from 215 to around 80, marking a major realignment in the state’s political landscape.
