CPI(M), Congress condemn killing of leaders in Burdwan

Kolkata, Feb 22: Condemning the killing of two CPI(M) leaders in Burdwan town, opposition CPI(M) and ruling Trinamool Congress ally, Congress, on Wednesday demanded that the "politics of killing" is stopped forthwith.

Demanding immediate arrest of the attackers, CPI(M) state secretary Biman Bose said that the two Marxist leaders were killed in a "planned" manner.

Bose claimed that 58 Left workers were killed in the state after the Trinamool Congress came to power. CPI(M) leaders Pradip Tah and Kamal Gayen were killed in an attack during a procession in Burdwan town.

Holding that the Trinamool Congress had become desperate to resist the industrial strike called on February 28, he said party workers would observe 'Condemnation Day' today and tomorrow state-wide and appealed to the people to support it.

It would be ensured that Madhyamik examinees were not disturbed during observance of condemnation day, he said.

Leader of the Opposition and CPI(M) leader Suryakanta Mishra said, "Trinamool Congress has become desperate after witnessing the huge turnout at our Brigade Parade ground rally on Sunday."

Former commerce and industry minister and CPI(M) leader Nirupam Sen alleged it was a pre-planned killing, while CITU leader Shyamal Chakraborty said that demonstrations would be held statewide.

Condemning the attack, WBPCC president Pradip Bhattacharya said, "It is high time that politics of killing is stopped forthwith."

State Congress leader Omprakash Mishra said the incident was a shameful act "which reflects that politics of revenge has been prevailing in the state."

Describing the attack as "unfortunate and shameful, state BJP president Rahul Sinha blamed "provocative statements" issued by the Trinamool Congress for the outbreak of violence.

PTI