Samir Ghosh, a 35‑year‑old BJP supporter, was struck with a sharp weapon and then shot twice by unidentified assailants in the Ramkeli area under the English Bazar police station on Wednesday evening.
Local residents allege that the attackers were loyalists of a rival political party, echoing long‑standing factional tensions that have plagued the district for years.
Six people were injured in the ensuing clashes; they were rushed to Malda Medical College and Hospital, where doctors are treating gunshot wounds and other injuries.
The Malda police chief said a large contingent of officers has been deployed to restore order, but no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.