Chandranath Rath Murder Case: CBI Begins Investigation
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially taken over the investigation into the murder of Chandranath Rath, the close aide and personal assistant of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The high-profile killing has triggered political reactions across the state, with the agency forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to handle the case.
The seven-member SIT will reportedly be led by DIG-rank officer Pankaj Singh. The move comes amid growing demands for an impartial investigation into the shocking murder that took place shortly after the West Bengal Assembly Election results.
How The Murder Happened
According to officials, Chandranath Rath was attacked on the night of May 6 while returning home to Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas after attending a political programme.
Police sources said Rath’s vehicle was intercepted by unidentified assailants travelling in a four-wheeler. Soon after stopping his car, bike-borne attackers allegedly opened fire at close range. Rath sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
Investigators suspect the murder was carefully planned and executed after days of surveillance on the victim.
Suvendu Adhikari Calls It A “Planned Political Murder”
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari described the killing as a “premeditated and targeted attack.” He alleged that Chandranath Rath was specifically targeted due to his close association with him.
Adhikari claimed that the attackers had conducted reconnaissance before carrying out the shooting. He also stated that Rath might not have been killed if he had not worked closely with the BJP leadership in Bengal.
The BJP leader further demanded strict punishment for all those involved in the conspiracy.
Three Accused Arrested From Bihar And Uttar Pradesh
Police have already arrested three suspects in connection with the case:
- Mayank Raj Mishra
- Vicky Maurya
- Raj Singh
According to investigators, two of the accused were detained from Buxar in Bihar, while another suspect was arrested from Ballia in Uttar Pradesh.
All three accused were later brought to Kolkata for questioning. A Barasat court has remanded them to police custody till May 24.
Authorities have also added charges related to destruction of evidence during the investigation.
Political Reactions Intensify In Bengal
The murder case has intensified political tensions in West Bengal. Several opposition leaders and organisations have demanded a transparent investigation under court supervision.
Political analysts believe the incident could further heat up the already charged atmosphere in the state following the recent Assembly elections.
Both the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Congress leaders have supported the demand for a fair and independent probe to uncover the complete conspiracy behind the murder.
Why The Case Matters
The killing of a senior political aide so soon after the Assembly election results has raised serious concerns over political violence and law-and-order conditions in West Bengal.
With the CBI now leading the investigation, attention will remain focused on whether the agency can uncover the masterminds behind the murder and establish any larger conspiracy angle.