Bengal Communal Violence: Many people were injured in communal clashes in Beldanga town and surrounding areas of Bengal’s Murshidabad district on Saturday (November 16) night. Police gave this information. Superintendent of Police (SP) Surya Pratap Yadav said on Sunday (November 17) that many people have been injured and many have been detained. He did not give exact figures.
State Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Kumar said that a large number of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers reached Beldanga on Saturday night. Local residents claimed that at least 50 people from both communities were injured and more than 30 houses were vandalized or set on fire. He told that the most affected area is Civic Ward 10 of Beldanga.
Heavy police force deployed, internet banned
Authorities deployed a large police force, including the Rapid Action Force, in the affected areas and shut down internet facilities in the entire Murshidabad district until 8 am on 19 November. According to the 2011 census, this district has the highest Muslim population in West Bengal, which is 66.28%. The neighboring district of Malda has the second highest Muslim population in the state, at 51.27%.
Why did tension arise?
According to Hindustan Times report, a local police officer, who did not wish to be named, said, “The clashes broke out during the Kartik Puja celebrations by community clubs in Beldanga. It is alleged that profane remarks were made on the bulbs on the electrical display board. This created tension around 8.30 pm on Saturday night.”
Rapid Action Force personnel were also injured
“Four residents of Beldanga, including a woman, have been admitted to Berhampur Medical College and Hospital. A Rapid Action Force soldier also sustained injuries while trying to stop the ongoing clashes,” the official said.