Central Bureau of Investigation Takes Over Murder Probe in West Bengal

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has stepped in to investigate the murder of Chandranath Rath, a personal assistant to West Bengal Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari. This development occurred on May 12, 2026, just a day after the West Bengal police's Special Investigation Team apprehended three suspects linked to the case.

The suspects, identified as Mayank Raj Mishra, Vicky Maurya, and Raj Singh, were captured in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. They are believed to have significant criminal backgrounds, with multiple charges against them. In response to the ongoing investigation, the CBI has registered a First Information Report (FIR) and established a Special Investigation Team comprised of seven senior officers to handle the case effectively.

The murder of Rath has sent shockwaves through West Bengal, particularly as it transpired shortly after the BJP celebrated a considerable victory in the recent Assembly elections. The incident, described as a case of organised crime, has prompted an extensive search for additional suspects. According to police, Rath was shot three times at close range while he was travelling in a car.

Investigators are also examining the financial transactions of the suspects, as one of their movements was traced through a digital payment made at a toll plaza in Howrah’s Bally. Additionally, a video circulating on social media appears to show Raj Singh involved in campaigning for the BJP during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections; however, this footage's authenticity remains unverified.

The Uttar Pradesh Congress has alleged that Raj Singh has connections with BJP Ministers and prominent figures, further intensifying political tensions surrounding the case. The Congress party's official social media account highlighted Singh's purported ties with various BJP members.

Suvendu Adhikari has asserted that the murder was politically motivated, suggesting that if Rath had not been his aide or if he had not emerged victorious over outgoing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur, Rath might not have been targeted. Members of the Trinamool Congress have swiftly condemned the act and are calling for a court-monitored investigation by the CBI.

The three arrested individuals were presented in West Bengal court on May 11 and subsequently remanded to police custody for 13 days. As the investigation continues, the CBI aims to uncover any broader conspiracy and additional participants involved in this tragic event.