The law and order situation in Beldanga, located in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, remains tense. Unrest broke out on Saturday, November 16, when a Muslim mob allegedly attacked Hindu homes following accusations of ‘blasphemy.’
The mob engaged in widespread violence, including vandalism and arson. According to a Beldanga resident, who spoke to OpIndia on the condition of anonymity, crude bombs were thrown, and over 20 Hindus were injured. However, official reports put the number of injuries at six, and the West Bengal police have stated that there were no casualties.
Thus far, approximately 17 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, with at least eight presented before a local court. To control the situation, the local administration invoked prohibitory measures under Section 167 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), banning gatherings of more than five people.
Violence in Beldanga, images via Bloody Media/X
Internet services in the area remain suspended. Meanwhile, the ruling Trinamool Congress government, led by Mamata Banerjee, has claimed that normalcy has been restored in Beldanga—a statement disputed by local sources.
On Monday, November 18th, TMC leader Kunal Ghosh claimed, “There was provocation in Beldanga due to which clashes broke out. However, the situation is peaceful now in the area. Evil forces are trying to provoke people in Beldanga.”
“They (evil forces) are trying to create confusion. What happened in Beldanga was due to the confusion created by these evil forces,” he also stated.
According to our source, the internet service ban is preventing more videos and photos of the violence in Beldanga from surfacing on social media.
Governor of West Bengal steps in
Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose requested an ‘action-taken’ report from Mamata Banerjee regarding the attacks on the Hindu community in Beldanga.
An official told PTI, “The Governor sought an immediate action taken report from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the incident in Beldanga in Murshidabad district. He is very disturbed and expressed his anguish about the developments there. If the situation demands, the governor may visit Beldanga on Tuesday.”
Governor CV Ananda Bose is said to be closely monitoring the situation from Raj Bhavan, having canceled all his other engagements.
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