Next year's Bengal Assembly polls must be held under President's rule: Suvendu Adhikari

Murshidabad communal violence: Suvendu Adhikari demands President's rule for 2026 West Bengal elections due to violence and lawlessness in Murshidabad district.

Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Monday (April 14, 2025) demanded that the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections be conducted under President's rule, alleging a complete breakdown of law and order following the recent violence in Murshidabad district.

Mr. Adhikari said the ongoing unrest in parts of Murshidabad, including Suti, Dhulian, Jangipur and Shamsherganj, highlighted the State government's inability to protect citizens and maintain peace.

He claimed the ruling dispensation remained a "mute spectator" as mobs went on a rampage.

“Wherever Hindus are in the minority, they are stopped from voting. Police act like cadres of the ruling party. For free and fair elections, the Assembly polls must be held under President’s rule,” Mr. Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, told reporters in Kolkata.

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Alleging that "jihadist elements" were behind the recent violence, Mr. Adhikari said, "These groups are allowed to run amok. We are ready to take them on, but there must be a level-playing field. The Election Commission must consider recommending President's rule in the State before the elections."

Hundreds of people, affected by the violence, have reportedly crossed the Bhagirathi River and took refuge in neighbouring Malda district, officials said.