Bengal: BJP alleges arson bid at 'Bharat Mata' pandal; police suspect short-circuit

KOLKATA: (Jan 27) The BJP has alleged that supporters of the ruling TMC in West Bengal attempted to set afire a puja pandal hosting an idol of ‘Bharat Mata’ at Khardah Assembly constituency on the northern outskirts of Kolkata.

Union minister Sukanta Majumdar visited the area on Monday, and led the drive in restoring the damaged portion of the pandal and offered prayers to an idol, which the party claimed as that of 'Bharat Mata'.

"TMC goons in the area set the pandal on fire late Saturday night and fled, but timely action by local people and our supporters prevented further damage. Police took no action so far," Majumdar told reporters at the spot.