BJP Factions Clash in Kolkata Over Community Feast, 4 Injured

Violence erupted in Anandapur late Saturday after rival BJP factions clashed over a community feast, leaving four injured. The trouble began around 10.30 pm near Anandapur grounds, where one faction hosted a feast of mutton, katla fish and giant freshwater prawns for over 1,000 people. Coupons identified the BJP’s Kasba Assembly unit as organiser. According to long-time local BJP leaders, the banquet was arranged by individuals who defected to the BJP from the Trinamool following May 4. Local BJP mandal president Arun Bishoyi alias Arun Biswal alleged the event was unauthorised and funded through extortion from businessmen and jewellery shops. “How is all this possible? We have worked for years and endured assaults from TMC, yet we couldn’t even arrange a simple fish-and-rice meal. So where are they getting the money for mutton? They took money from jewelry shops,” asked Bishoyi. The rival faction, aligned with South Kolkata district committee member Saraswati Sarkar, denied the allegations. Clashes later broke out outside Anandapur Police Station. Minister Dilip Ghosh said, “I don’t know whose feast this was.” Police have begun a probe.