Bangladesh's connection to Bengal violence? Did local leaders prepare the ground | READ

The central government has now become alert about the recent violence that erupted in Murshidabad district of West Bengal. According to sources in the Home Ministry, initial investigations have indicated that Bangladeshi anarchists may be involved in the violence. It is being told that these external elements initially got the support of some local leaders, but later the situation went out of their control. The Home Ministry has also ordered a vigil in violence hit Murshidabad as well as other sensitive districts of Bengal. Home Secretary Govind Mohan met the Chief Secretary and DGP of the state on Saturday and took stock of the situation and assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

BSF deployment

To handle the situation, the Centre has deployed nine companies of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Murshidabad, comprising over 900 personnel. Of these, 300 jawans were already present in the district, while additional companies have been sent on the demand of the state government.

More than 150 arrests have been made

The state Director General of Police (DGP) said the situation in Murshidabad was under control but the situation remained tense. Over 150 individuals have been arrested till now.  According to the DGP, efforts are being made to bring the situation under control with the help of local troops of BSF.

Violence erupts over Waqf Amendment Act

The violence began during a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act in Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district. The protests soon spread to Malda, South 24 Parganas and Hooghly, where incidents of arson, stone-pelting and road blockades were reported. During the violence, many Hindu families had to leave Murshidabad and migrate to Malda, making the situation more sensitive, sources said. Authorities have temporarily suspended internet services in violence-affected areas of Murshidabad.

Centre seeks response from state

The central government has questioned the state administration as to why the police was inactive in the initial stages, why attacks on railway properties were not stopped and why there was a lapse in protecting life and property.