Hemant, Ansari condemn attack on Abhishek

Ranchi: A day after Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee was attacked in West Bengal’s Sonarpur, Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and his cabinet colleague from the Congress condemned the attack , saying that there is no place for violence in a democracy.

The incident occurred when the MP was visiting an alleged victim of post-election violence. Scores of people hurled stones, eggs and abuses at Abhishek, the MP from Bengal’s Diamond Harbour. The situation quickly spiralled into chaos, with some members of the crowd reportedly attempting to physically attack Ashishek by raining blows and kicks on him, prompting swift intervention by security personnel.

In post on X, Hemant said, “The attack on the MP in West Bengal is extremely reprehensible. In a democracy, there could be ideological differences, but there is no place for violence and attacks. Political opposition should be countered with logic and public opinion, not with fear and use of force.”

The CM added that he strongly condemned the incident and demanded strict action against the culprits. He opined that it is dialogue and respect, not violence, that strengthens democracy.

Hemant’s party, the JMM, had extended its full support to TMC in the Bengal assembly election held over two phases in April. Hemant also campaigned for the TMC candidates before the election.

Health minister and Congress MLA Irfan Ansari also termed the assault on Abhishek as extremely alarming. He said that if the MP has not received proper treatment due to adverse political circumstances, the issue should be inquired into impartially.

Ansari said, “Political differences are natural in a democracy, but compromising with the safety, respect and health of a politician is unacceptable. Health and humanity are above politics. I appeal to former CM Mamata Banerjee to give top priority to Abhishek’s health and, if needed, send him to Jharkhand.”