Clashes broke out between rival political supporters in the state capital Kolkata after results were announced on Monday, with authorities confirming fatalities on both sides amid escalating tensions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP secured a sweeping win in the eastern state, capturing 206 of 294 assembly seats and marking its first-ever government in West Bengal, a region of more than 100 million people.

The outcome ends over a decade of rule by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, leader of the All India Trinamool Congress, who has rejected the election results after also losing her own seat.

Party officials reported casualties among their workers, with the BJP stating that two of its members were killed, while the TMC said two of its supporters were beaten to death in separate incidents.

“Two of our workers were killed after results of the elections were announced on Monday,” BJP state leader Samik Bharracharya said, adding that the party remained committed to peace.

The TMC, in a statement, condemned what it described as the “brutal murder” of its grassroots workers, with spokesperson Narendranath Chakraborty alleging that party offices were attacked in multiple areas.

A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed four deaths linked to the clashes and said one police officer was shot in the leg during the unrest.

Political analysts have described the BJP’s victory as one of its most significant expansions since Modi came to power in 2014, extending its influence beyond its traditional strongholds in northern and central India.

VHP President Alok Kumar emphasized India’s longstanding commitment to democratic values, urging communities to engage responsibly in civic activities. “It is essential that demonstrations are conducted within legal frameworks and do not disrupt public life,” Kumar said. Highlighting recent incidents during Milad-un-Nabi processions, he called on citizens to exercise caution and cooperate with authorities to maintain public safety.

The AIMPLB’s “Save Waqf Campaign” plans nationwide activities on October 3, including limited shop closures and peaceful marches to prominent government offices, such as Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi and Raj Bhavans across various state capitals. While some online platforms have referred to these events as Bharat Bandh, the VHP stressed that any public mobilization must remain non-violent and respectful of India’s democratic institutions.

Addressing the international community, Kumar noted that India has historically managed social and political debates through dialogue and legal channels rather than unrest. He underscored the importance of ensuring that public demonstrations do not influence judicial proceedings and that the Supreme Court’s role in overseeing legal challenges remains respected.

The VHP’s statement signals a broader message to the global audience: India continues to uphold civic responsibility and democratic integrity even amid politically sensitive debates. By encouraging peaceful demonstrations, the organization seeks to demonstrate that Indian communities value social harmony, legal compliance, and collaboration with authorities.

This approach also reassures foreign observers and international media that India’s legal and democratic frameworks are resilient. With millions of citizens engaging in public discourse and organized activism, India demonstrates that civic participation and national security can coexist, serving as a model for democratic societies worldwide.

Kumar concluded with an appeal to communities across India to act responsibly, respect the law, and foster constructive dialogue during moments of social and legal debate. The VHP reinforced that unity, patience, and lawful civic engagement are crucial to strengthening India’s democratic fabric and maintaining social stability.