NIA takes over case linked to attack on BJP leader Priyangu Pandey's car in West Bengal
Times of India | 6 November 2024
NEW DELHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is now handling the investigation into the August 28th attack on a car carrying Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Priyangu Pandey.
The incident occurred in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district as Pandey was en route to the residence of former MP Arjun Singh.
Around 8:30 pm, a group of over 50 individuals, armed with weapons including crude bombs, attacked the vehicle. The driver, Ravi Verma, and passenger Rabi Singh sustained gunshot injuries.
Pandey alleged that Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers were responsible for the attack. Arjun Singh also pointed fingers at TMC, specifically leaders Tarun Sau and MLA Somnath Shyam, alleging they orchestrated the assault.
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari shared a video clip appearing to show the shooting, stating on X (formerly Twitter):
"TMC goon opening fire on eminent BJP leader Priyangu Pandey's vehicle at Bhatpara. The driver of the vehicle is shot."
The NIA has filed a First Information Report (FIR) based on the incident.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, citing concerns about public safety due to the use of explosives and weapons, transferred the case from the West Bengal Police to the NIA.