Police Probe UPI Trail in Killing of West Bengal CM Aide

Chandranath Rath, a close aide of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead on a busy road in North 24 Parganas district on Wednesday night, and police have yet to make any arrests. Armed assailants on a motorcycle opened fire at point-blank range as Rath's Mahindra Scorpio was blocked by a silver Nissan Micra near his home in Madhyamgram, about 200 metres from his residence. The attackers fled using a red car and a motorcycle after abandoning the Micra at the scene.

Police have recovered a bike in Barasat and another near the crime site, while the Micra has been seized. CCTV footage from a toll plaza in Bally, near Kolkata, captured the suspects using the Micra, and investigators are tracking a UPI transaction made by its occupants as a potential breakthrough. Preliminary findings indicate the red car and motorcycles used in the attack were stolen vehicles.

Investigators believe at least eight people were involved, including local associates who provided logistical support. A senior SIT officer told PTI the shooters had precise knowledge of Rath's seating position, suggesting prior intelligence. Police teams have been deployed to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where the attackers may have originated. Three individuals have been detained for questioning.

Rath, a former Indian Air Force employee, was cremated in his native village of Kulup in Purba Medinipur district, where his body was displayed under a national flag for public homage. The investigation continues with multiple leads under examination.

The SIT will expand its probe into inter-state criminal networks, while forensic teams analyze digital and physical evidence from the vehicles. The next official update on the investigation is expected within 48 hours.