Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury escapes major road mishap in Murshidabad, aide injured as truck hits convoy

Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury narrowly escaped a major road accident in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district on Wednesday evening after a speeding truck rammed into his convoy near Kandi.

The incident occurred when Chowdhury was returning from a political campaign event. According to sources, a fast-moving truck suddenly lost control and veered towards the Congress leader’s vehicle.

Acting swiftly, the driver steered Chowdhury’s car to the left, helping him avoid a direct collision.

However, the truck went on to crash into an escort vehicle travelling ahead in the convoy.

The impact left the escort vehicle severely damaged and injured Ketan Jaiswal, chairman of the party’s media department, who was inside at the time.

Jaiswal was immediately provided primary medical care and later taken to a hospital. His condition is reported to be stable.

The Murshidabad district Congress has alleged that despite informing the Kandi police station promptly after the crash, there was a significant delay in police personnel reaching the spot.

The delay has sparked anger among party workers and supporters, especially given the ongoing election season.

“This kind of delay during a crucial time like elections is extremely worrying,” local Congress leaders said, questioning the administration’s preparedness and response.

The incident has also raised serious concerns over the security arrangements for Chowdhury, a five-time MP, former Union minister, and former leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha.

Chowdhury’s wife, Atsasi Chowdhury, confirmed that the veteran leader was unharmed.

“Adhir Babu did not sustain any injuries. The vehicle that was hit had CRPF security personnel. The injured person has been hospitalised and may be discharged tonight,” she said.

She further added that Chowdhury resumed his political schedule soon after ensuring the situation was under control.

AICC member Niloy Pramanik termed the incident alarming, noting that Chowdhury had faced attacks in the past as well. “He is shocked. We will be informing the Election Commission about this incident,” he said.

While the administration has initiated an investigation into the crash, the episode has intensified political debate over safety and security during election campaigning in the state.