Cong supporter shot dead

MALDA, May 17: Manirul Islam (27) a Congress supporter was shot dead allegedly by CPI-M goons at Uttar Lakhipur under Kaliachak police station at 8 p.m. today. Three other Congress supporters were injured as a result of the clash that took place in Malda between Congress supporters and CPI-M candidates. The injured people were admitted to Malda district hospital. Mr Ali Jahan, who was injured said, “Four CPI-M supporters named Khalekh, Malekh, Montu and Fitu shot bullets from behind and attacked us. When I tried to rescue my brother Manirul from the CPI-M goons they beat me up and I tried to escape from the spot.” Mr Jahan said they were returning from Harirampur village in South Dinajpur district and they did intend to enter into a scuffle with other parties. “CPI-M goons first attacked us and killed my brother," said Mr Jahan. Mr Satyajit Bandyopadhyay, SP (Malda) said, “We have heard the news just now and we suspect similar violence to follow tomorrow at Malda.” Police arrested Khalek, Malekh, Montu and Fitu at around 10.30 p.m. Mr Jiban Maitra, CPI-M district secretary (Malda) said, "The clash occurred due to family tensions. Police arrested a few candidates including the husband of a CPI-M candidate." SNS