📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Subhrajyoti07
Politics
Bookstall Vandalism Sparks Political Opening for CPI(M) Amid Ongoing Kali Puja Attacks
✍️ The Federal
🗓 10 Nov 2026, 12:36 PM
👁 13
Incidents of bookstall vandalism during Kali Puja celebrations have been linked to a potential political advantage for the CPI(M), officials say.
Police reports from Kolkata indicate that several bookstalls near major Kali Puja venues were damaged in a series of coordinated attacks on the night of October 20. Witnesses said the vandals used blunt objects to smash display cases and set fire to stock, causing significant losses for vendors.
Local authorities have launched an investigation, noting a pattern of similar incidents in the past month that target cultural and commercial sites during the festival. The police have detained a few suspects, but the motive behind the attacks remains under scrutiny.
Political analysts suggest that the violence could provide a strategic opening for the Communist Party of India (Marxist), which has been vocal in condemning the law‑and‑order lapses. The party is expected to capitalize on public discontent ahead of upcoming municipal elections, positioning itself as a defender of cultural heritage.
The municipal corporation has announced heightened security measures for the remaining days of the Kali Puja celebrations, including increased police patrols and CCTV monitoring around market areas to deter further vandalism.
Local authorities have launched an investigation, noting a pattern of similar incidents in the past month that target cultural and commercial sites during the festival. The police have detained a few suspects, but the motive behind the attacks remains under scrutiny.
Political analysts suggest that the violence could provide a strategic opening for the Communist Party of India (Marxist), which has been vocal in condemning the law‑and‑order lapses. The party is expected to capitalize on public discontent ahead of upcoming municipal elections, positioning itself as a defender of cultural heritage.
The municipal corporation has announced heightened security measures for the remaining days of the Kali Puja celebrations, including increased police patrols and CCTV monitoring around market areas to deter further vandalism.