TMC Leader Debobrata Mondal and Associate Injured in Shooting Incident in Howrah

Debobrata Mondal, a TMC gram panchayat member, and his associate were shot in Howrah, West Bengal. Both are hospitalised with serious injuries following the attack by unidentified assailants.

A member of the TMC gram panchayat and his companion were seriously injured after being shot at by unknown attackers in Howrah, West Bengal, a police officer reported on Friday. Debobrata Mondal, also known as Babu Mondal, was travelling home with his associate Anupam Rana when the incident occurred near Nishchinda-Buro Shibtala under Liluah police station around 11 pm on Thursday.

According to police accounts, two individuals on a motorcycle approached Mondal and Rana and fired multiple shots at close range in front of witnesses. Mondal was struck in the waist and shoulder, collapsing immediately, while Anupam was injured when he attempted to fend off the attackers. Both men were quickly taken to Belur State General Hospital by local residents.

Police Investigation Underway

Following the attack, Howrah Police Commissioner Praveen Tripathy visited the scene with a team. A case has been filed, and authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators. "Efforts are being made to trace the accused," Tripathy stated. The motive for the attack remains unclear, prompting demands for swift arrests from senior Trinamool Congress leaders.

Mondal was later transferred to SSKM Hospital in Kolkata for further treatment. Anupam is currently in critical condition at a private hospital in North Howrah. Senior party figures, including Howrah District Sadar president and MLA Goutam Chowdhury, MLA Kalyan Ghosh, and Domjur Youth Trinamool leader Noorj Molla, visited the hospitals where the victims were admitted.

Suspect Identified in Shooting

Police sources revealed that at least five shots were fired during the assault. A suspect named Suman Choudhury has emerged as a person of interest in the investigation. Choudhury has a criminal record involving extortion and attempted murder charges. Authorities are focusing on this lead as they continue their probe into the incident.

Earlier reports suggested that Mondal had succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, according to officials and party insiders. However, he is currently receiving medical care at SSKM Hospital. The attack has raised concerns among local leaders who are urging for immediate action against those responsible.

The situation remains tense as police work diligently to bring those involved to justice. Community members are hopeful for a resolution soon as investigations progress. The incident has highlighted ongoing security challenges faced by political figures in the region.

With inputs from PTI