Chandranath Rath Murder: Suvendu Adhikari’s Aide Shot Dead in West Bengal
The murder of Chandranath Rath, a close aide and personal assistant to senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, has triggered massive political outrage in West Bengal after chilling details of the attack emerged from the police investigation. Rath was gunned down late Wednesday night in Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district, just days after the BJP’s major victory in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. A shocking political assassination.
According to investigators, the killing appeared to be a carefully planned and professionally executed assassination. Rath was travelling in his Scorpio SUV near the Doltala area around 10.30 pm when a car carrying a fake number plate suddenly intercepted his vehicle. Moments later, several armed men on motorcycles surrounded the SUV and launched the deadly attack. Carefully planned and executed.
Police sources said four bullets were fired at close range, out of which three struck Rath in the chest and abdomen. One of the bullets reportedly pierced his heart, leaving doctors with no opportunity to save him. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival. Three bullets hit chest and abdomen.
Investigators believe the attackers had been following Rath’s movements before carrying out the assault. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that the assailants had conducted reconnaissance for at least two to three days before the murder. He described the killing as a “cold-blooded” and “pre-planned” political assassination. Reconnaissance for two to three days.
Reports indicated that as many as eight gunmen riding four motorcycles may have participated in the operation. The attackers allegedly blocked Rath’s vehicle, chased him down, and opened fire with sophisticated firearms believed to include Glock pistols. After the shooting, the assailants fled the scene within minutes, leaving behind chaos and panic in the area. Eight gunmen, four motorcycles, Glock pistols.
West Bengal Police have launched a large-scale investigation into the incident. Director General of Police Siddh Nath Gupta confirmed that the vehicle used in the crime had been seized and investigators were examining CCTV footage from the crime scene and surrounding areas. Multiple police teams have been formed to identify and trace the attackers. Vehicle seized, CCTV examined.
Police are also probing whether hired contract killers were involved in the assassination due to the precision and coordination seen during the attack. Officials suspect the use of advanced firearms and a professionally organised escape route. The fake number plate used on the vehicle has added another layer of complexity to the investigation. Professional hit suspected.
Chandranath Rath was considered one of Suvendu Adhikari’s most trusted associates and had worked closely with him for years. Originally from Purba Medinipur district, Rath had previously served in the Indian Air Force before joining active political work. Known for maintaining a low profile, he played a major role in coordinating Adhikari’s political campaigns and organisational activities. A trusted associate and former IAF personnel.
The killing has sharply escalated political tensions in the state. BJP leaders accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of fostering a climate of violence and demanded a thorough investigation into the murder. Several BJP leaders termed the incident a targeted political attack carried out shortly after the election results. BJP accuses TMC of fostering violence.
The Trinamool Congress condemned the murder and called for a detailed probe, stating that those responsible should face strict punishment. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh described the incident as “grave” and said the case should be investigated impartially. TMC condemns, calls for impartial probe.
The shocking assassination has intensified concerns over post-poll violence in West Bengal, with security agencies now under pressure to solve one of the state’s most high-profile political murder cases in recent years. Post-poll violence fears intensify. Chandranath Rath murder: a targeted political assassination. West Bengal on edge after BJP leader’s aide killed.
