The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted a charge sheet against 11 accused individuals in connection with the murder of Chandranath Rath, a close aide of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The development comes after the investigating agency arrested two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers, Sagar Sonkar and his brother Sahib Sonkar, for their alleged involvement in the conspiracy behind Rath’s killing.

According to officials familiar with the investigation, the two accused were working from Rath’s office and are suspected of arranging the contract killing through shooters allegedly based in Uttar Pradesh. The CBI has been examining the alleged conspiracy, financial arrangements, and the involvement of individuals connected to the execution of the murder plan.

Investigators have also expanded their probe into possible political connections surrounding the case. Officials said that the role of a functionary linked to a rival political party in West Bengal is also being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.

The probe has revealed that Sagar Sonkar was earlier associated with a leader from a rival political party. According to officials, he worked with the MLA belonging to that party until 2020 before later joining the BJP. Investigators are looking into whether his previous political associations had any connection with the alleged conspiracy.

The CBI’s investigation indicates that the plan to eliminate Rath was allegedly being developed since December 2025. However, the execution of the murder contract was repeatedly postponed due to various reasons, according to officials. The agency is now investigating the timeline of the conspiracy, communication between the accused, and the alleged role of other individuals involved in the case.

Chandranath Rath was considered a key figure in Suvendu Adhikari’s political activities and played an important role during Adhikari’s campaign in the Bhabanipur constituency. His killing had raised concerns over political violence and security issues in the state.

The filing of the charge sheet marks a significant step in the investigation, but the CBI continues to gather additional evidence and examine the possible involvement of other suspects. Further developments are expected as the legal proceedings move forward.