CPI-M leader shot at North Dinajpur, assilant still at large

Kolkata, Apr 22 (UNI) Unidentified miscreants shot at CPI(M) local branch secretary of Kamlai under Itahar police station in North Dinajpur district near his house last night, sparking tension in the area.

Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Raj Kanojia told UNI here today that the victim Bhairav Ray was returning to his house after participating in an election campaign of Minister of State for Civil Defence Srikumar Mukherjee in Itahar when some unidentifed assailants, who came by two motorcycles and were waiting for him, opened fire, injuring him seriously.

As Mr Ray lay in a pool of blood, the assailants fled under the cover of darkness.

However, soon Mr Ray was rushed to a nearby health centre and later to the district hospital, where he was operated upon.

Later, the doctors pronounced that he was out of danger.

Soon a large number of party cadres gathered on the spot and demanded immeditate arrest of the assailants, who also decamped with Mr Ray's personal belongings, including his mobile phone. But soon a large posse of police force rushed to Kamlai and brought the situation under control.

None had been arrested so far in this connection, Mr Kanojia informed.

UNI ABA SJC DB1204