TMC panchayat official killed

A Trinamool Congress (TMC) panchayat functionary of West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district was shot dead by unidentified assailants on Sunday.

Asikul Islam (30) alias Babushona, the panchayat functionary of Bhangar Block II and considered the right hand man of TMC strongman Arabul Islam, was killed when he was on his way to attend a gathering at Natunhat area.

Supporters of Arabul were gathering at his house to counter a procession proposed by those protesting the construction of a PGCIL sub-station in the area.

A bullet penetrated Asikul’s head and he died on the spot, police said.

The group of people opposing the PGCIL sub-station alleged that Asikul had been killed by his own group, while Arabul’s followers alleged that those opposing the project were behind the killing.

Police have started an investigation after receiving complaints.

CPM polit bureau member Biman Bose alleged in the city that the death was due to factional fighting of the ruling party.