Chandranath Rath, a key aide to Suvendu Adhikari (West Bengal BJP leader), was shot dead in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night. Earlier that day, Rath had been actively encouraging party workers to remain calm amid rising post-election violence following the BJP's victory in the West Bengal Assembly elections on May 4. Hours later, as he returned home, his vehicle was intercepted by assailants on motorcycles who opened fire at close range. Reports indicate that at least eight attackers were involved, and the police suspect that the incident was carefully orchestrated. Rath sustained two bullet wounds to the chest and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. His driver, Buddhadev Bera, was also injured but is currently receiving treatment. The killing has sparked panic in the region, prompting a swift response from BJP leaders, including Adhikari, who labeled the act as a “cold-blooded murder.” The police are actively investigating the incident, including reviewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators.