Asian Games Gold Medalist Swapna Barman Claims Arson Attack on Her Home
Asian Games gold medalist, who fought on TMC ticket, claims Bengal home torched
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
Swapna Barman, an Asian Games gold medalist and former Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate, reported an arson attempt on her home in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. She alleges that BJP supporters targeted her due to her political affiliation. The TMC's Abhishek Banerjee condemned the attack, highlighting the threats faced by those who support the party.
- 01Swapna Barman lost the Raiganj Assembly seat to BJP's Dinesh Sarkar by 21,477 votes.
- 02The police confirmed a fire incident occurred at Barman's old house, with some documents charred.
- 03Barman received threats of violence, including rape, following her political involvement.
- 04TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee accused BJP workers of orchestrating the attack on Barman's home.
- 05Barman expressed regret about entering politics, stating it led to violence against her family.
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Swapna Barman, the Asian Games gold medalist who contested the Raiganj Assembly seat on a Trinamool Congress (TMC) ticket, reported an arson attempt on her home in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. According to police, Barman lodged a complaint after miscreants allegedly attempted to set her house ablaze, resulting in damage to some documents. She lost the recent election to BJP candidate Dinesh Sarkar by a significant margin of 21,477 votes. TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee claimed that the attack was orchestrated by BJP supporters, accusing them of targeting Barman due to her political affiliation. Banerjee condemned the violence, emphasizing that Barman, who has brought pride to India through her athletic achievements, should not face intimidation for her political choices. Barman has also reported receiving death threats, including threats of sexual violence, which she stated have made her regret her decision to enter politics. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of political figures in West Bengal, particularly those aligned with the TMC.
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The incident raises concerns for the safety of political candidates and their families in West Bengal, particularly those from opposition parties.
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