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aby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 11, 2025 : Speaking to the media outside the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Wednesday afternoon, senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Subhendu Adhikari made serious allegations regarding law and order in Maheshtala’s Ward No. 7, specifically in the Rabindranagar police station area. He claimed that around 2,000 individuals, whom he referred to as “jihadis,” were involved in targeted vandalism of Hindu homes and temples.
Adhikari alleged that places of worship and household religious structures, such as Tulsi Manchas, were being desecrated, drawing parallels to the situation in Mothabari despite Maheshtala being just 10 kilometers from central Kolkata. He showed a video clip on his mobile phone as purported evidence and issued a stern ultimatum to Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, demanding action within one hour. Failing that, he threatened to personally visit the area with BJP MLAs.
He further criticized the local police for inaction, accusing them of following what he described as the “Diamond Harbour model”—a term he has previously used to imply political interference in policing. Adhikari also demanded the deployment of central forces in the area, citing a Calcutta High Court order that permits such measures in the event of unrest up to July 31.
Raising concerns over press freedom, Adhikari claimed that media personnel were being prevented from entering the affected zone and alleged that the local Hindu population was suffering severe hardship. He also used provocative language, referring to the current state government as resembling a “Muslim League government,” while reiterating his call for immediate intervention by law enforcement agencies.
The remarks have intensified the political discourse in the state, and the situation in Maheshtala is likely to draw attention from both administrative and judicial authorities. However, as of this report, there has been no official response from the Kolkata Police or the state government regarding the claims made.
