Top BJP leader's aide shot dead in violence after Indian state election
An aide of a senior leader of India's ruling BJP party was shot dead in election-related violence after a state ballot, the BBC reports. The incident underscores continuing post-election tensions across India. Police have launched a wide-ranging investigation.
An aide to a senior leader of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party was shot dead in violence that erupted after a state election, the BBC reports. The killing took place in an area close to vote-counting centres, and police say the number of suspects in custody is steadily rising.
Post-election tensions have been particularly acute in tightly contested constituencies. Local authorities have imposed curfews in affected districts and additional security forces have been deployed across the state. India's home ministry said the national election commission has formally requested a report on the events.
Opposition parties have accused the government of failing to take adequate measures against post-election violence. BJP officials have condemned the killing and said they expect the judicial process to take its course. The political fallout is likely to dominate national debate in the coming days.
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