The investigation into the murder of Chandranath Rath has expanded beyond West Bengal, with police teams now probing possible links in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Investigators are focusing on a digital payment trail and the vehicle used during the attack as part of the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
Rath, a close aide of Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead near Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district on May 7 in what officials described as a professionally coordinated attack.
UPI Payment And Vehicle Trail Become Key Leads
According to investigators, one of the strongest leads emerged from a UPI payment reportedly made by occupants of a silver Nissan Micra at a toll plaza near Bally, close to Kolkata. The same vehicle was allegedly used to intercept Rath’s SUV shortly before the shooting.
The SIT traced the car registration details to a resident of Siliguri in West Bengal who had reportedly listed the vehicle for sale online. Police believe individuals from Uttar Pradesh contacted the owner expressing interest in purchasing the car.
Authorities suspect the attackers may have used cloned or fabricated number plates to hide the vehicle’s real identity and avoid detection.
Attack Executed Within Minutes
Investigators said Rath’s vehicle, a Mahindra Scorpio, was blocked near Doharia crossing in Madhyamgram, only a short distance from his residence.
Officials believe bike-borne assailants approached the SUV and opened fire at point-blank range while Rath was seated in the front passenger seat. The attackers reportedly escaped using motorcycles and a red vehicle after abandoning the Micra near the crime scene.
Police sources indicated that the entire operation lasted less than a minute, suggesting detailed planning and prior surveillance.
SIT Suspects Interstate Criminal Network
The SIT has reportedly dispatched teams to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar after preliminary findings suggested that hired sharpshooters may have been brought in from outside West Bengal.
Investigators suspect at least eight individuals were involved in the operation, including shooters, logistics handlers, and local criminal associates who allegedly coordinated movements during the attack.
Officials also believe the accused used a WhatsApp group for real-time communication before and after the murder.
Prior Knowledge Of Rath’s Seating Position
According to senior investigators, the attackers appeared to have prior information regarding Rath’s exact seating position inside the SUV.
Police officials stated that the precision of the attack indicates advance planning and detailed intelligence gathering. Investigators are currently analysing CCTV footage, communication records, and digital evidence linked to the suspects.
Two motorcycles connected to the case have already been recovered, while three individuals are being questioned in connection with the investigation. However, no formal arrests have been announced so far.
Political And Security Concerns Rise In West Bengal
The killing has intensified political tensions in West Bengal shortly after the BJP formed the new government in the state. Rath, a former Indian Air Force employee, was considered a trusted aide of Suvendu Adhikari and played a significant role in political coordination.
His body was later taken to his native village in Purba Medinipur district, where people gathered to pay their respects.
The high-profile murder has raised fresh concerns about political violence, interstate criminal networks, and organised contract killings in eastern India.
