Several Trinamul Congress (TMC) leaders have alleged a political motive behind the recent murder of senior party leader Dulal Sarkar, alias Babla, in Malda. Minister of state for finance and health Chandrima Bhattacharya visited Sarkar’s widow Chaitali Sarkar, today to discuss her concerns about the incident.

Ms Bhattacharya’s visit was made on the instructions of chief minister Mamata Banerjee. During the meeting, Ms Sarkar expressed her apprehensions regarding her husband’s murder, which occurred in broad daylight, allegedly at the hands of hired assailants.

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Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ms Bhattacharya said, “A political motive behind the murder cannot be ruled out. There must be a mastermind. Who hired professionals to kill him? The police investigation will reveal the truth.”

She also questioned why Mr Sarkar’s security was withdrawn, stating: “I don’t understand why the police removed his security. Who gave such instructions?”

Ms Sarkar, while speaking to the media, said: “It is evident who was behind my husband’s murder. His rivals plotted to eliminate him, but I will not disclose further details before speaking to the chief minister. My son and I are waiting for justice. My husband was politically shortlisted for a higher post, which may have been a reason for his murder.”

Ms Sarkar plans to meet Mamata Banerjee after completing her husband’s post-death rituals.

Malda district TMC president Abdur Rahim Boxi hinted at a political motive, saying: “Dulal Sarkar was not an ordinary leader. He served as party president, vice-chairman of English Bazar Municipality and was a councillor for over 30 years. He was deserving of the chairman’s post at the municipality, but that alone may not be the reason for his murder.”

“If the police fail to bring the culprits to justice, our party will take necessary steps to ensure punishment,” Mr Boxi added.

South Malda MP Isha Khan Choudhury also demanded swift action, stating: “We never expected a ruling party leader to be murdered in broad daylight. The police must identify the culprits without delay.”