TMC Minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury's Car Attacked In Bengal, He Alleges Party Involvement

West Bengal Minister Siddiqullah Chowdhury's car was attacked on Thursday, July 3, 2025, while he was visiting his assembly constituency, Monteswar, in East Burdwan district. Chowdhury, who serves as the Minister of Mass Education Extension and Library Services and is the president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind's West Bengal unit, has alleged that the attack was orchestrated by members of his own party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

According to reports, the incident occurred when Chowdhury's convoy was passing through Monteswar. Agitated TMC workers, reportedly led by local panchayat pradhan Rafiqul Islam Sheikh, protested with black flags and shouted slogans accusing Chowdhury of being a "thief" and an "extortionist". Some protestors allegedly waved shoes and brooms. The situation escalated as stones were pelted at the minister's car and other vehicles in his convoy, resulting in smashed windshields. Chowdhury sustained a hand injury during the attack.

Chowdhury described the incident as a "murderous attack" and an "attempt to kill" him. He claimed that the attack was planned by a "corrupt TMC panchayat leader" and that the local police were present but took no action. He has contacted senior officials to demand action against the perpetrators. Adding to his accusations, Chowdhury threatened to resign from the TMC if such incidents continue and announced a protest march scheduled for July 10. He has accused local TMC leader Zila Parishad member Azizul Haque of being behind the attack, but Haque has denied these charges.

Rafiqul Islam Sheikh, the TMC leader and chief of Monteswar gram panchayat, admitted to leading the protest but denied allegations of attempted murder. He stated that the demonstration was a "spontaneous outburst" by local residents who are angry with Chowdhury for being a "corrupt leader" who "extorts money" and has "never visited Monteswar after winning the election".

Police have confirmed the incident, stating that stones were thrown at the minister's convoy during the black flag protest. They dispersed the crowd and escorted Chowdhury away from the spot in a pilot car. An inquiry has been ordered, and raids are being conducted in the area.

Siddiqullah Chowdhury has been a prominent figure in West Bengal politics for several years. He has a long history of political involvement, including participation in the Nandigram movement and previous affiliations with the Indian National Congress and the All India United Democratic Front. He won the Monteswar seat in 2021 on a TMC ticket. Chowdhury's political career has also been marked by controversies, including criticism for inciting violence during protests.

The attack on Chowdhury's car highlights the internal conflicts and tensions within the TMC. The incident is currently under investigation, and further details are awaited.