The incident took place in Paschimpara in Arjunpur area, which is around a kilometre away from the Baguiati police station.

The deceased was identified as Sanjeev Das alias Patla and had 11 cases, including those related to the Arms Act, registered against him, police said. Following a complaint filed by Das’ family, 13 persons were arrested in connection with the case Sunday, they added.

According to sources, the clash started after one of the TMC factions allegedly cut the electricity supply to a locality where the rival group lived. “Both groups started throwing bricks at each other. Baguiati police rushed to the spot after being alerted. The situation was brought under control after several hours. However, as soon as the police left, the ruckus started again. Das reportedly sustained a head injury after he was hit by a brick. While everyone fled the spot, he fell down on the ground. He was later cornered by some members of the rival faction who slapped, kicked and punched him,” said a police official. Das’s family claimed that he was beaten up with rods. His family rushed him to the RG Kar Hospital where he died, the official said.

“The deceased was a history sheeter. There are several cases against him. His death seems to be a fallout of a group clash with no connection to a political party. Prima facie, the reason behind the clash seems to be personal enmity,” said a senior police official.

Following his death, Das’s family and relatives protested on a road in Baguiati and demanded the arrest of the accused. In the wake of the tension in the area, Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed in the area.

When local TMC councillor Devraj Chakraborty visited Baguiati on Sunday, local residents gheraoed him in protest.

“I was very close to Das and knew his family for 10-11 years. All those involved in the incident will be punished,” Chakraborty told media.