Tensions flared in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, which was heading to the polls, after clashes broke out on Friday during Ram Navami processions, leading to stone-pelting, vandalism and arson in some areas.
Police said security measures have been tightened in the affected areas of Jangipur and Raghunathganj.
Police said the situation became tense after an altercation during a procession turned violent, with two groups pelting stones at each other and damaging property in the two affected districts – Jangipur and Raghunathganj, news agency PTI reported. No arrests have been made in this regard until the report was submitted.
What happened in Murshidabad?
As part of the Ram Navami celebrations, people were in a large procession heading towards Mackenzie Park in Raghunathganj when the disturbances started, PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying.
Section 144, which prohibits gathering of four or more people, was also imposed in Raghunathganj, news agency ANI reported.
In Sisatala locality, a dispute over playing music during a procession led to a clash between participants and local residents.
The situation became tense again near the Voltala crossing when the convoy reached the area, following stone-pelting incidents. Stores were vandalized and set on fire, which further aggravated the situation.
The officer was quoted as saying that security forces were deployed in large numbers to control the situation and have since been conducting road marches and maintaining vigil in the affected areas.
Bharatiya Janata Party says violence was ‘pre-planned’
The clashes sparked political reactions, with BJP leader Dhananjay Ghosh claiming the violence was “pre-planned” and demanding strict action.
Meanwhile, Jangipur Mayor Mufaddalul Islam urged the administration to act against those responsible and maintain peace.
Officials said the administration appealed to residents to remain calm as security measures were tightened across the area.
Elections to the 294-member West Bengal Assembly are scheduled to be held on April 23-29. The votes will be counted on May 4, along with those from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry.
