CV Ananda Bose reaches Malda to meet Murshidabad violence victims

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose on Friday visited Malda district to meet victims of the recent communal violence in Murshidabad, defying Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s formal request to postpone the trip. His visit comes amid heightened political tensions following the violence linked to protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act.

Governor Bose emphasized that his presence on the ground was necessary to "meet the victims and verify field reports" first-hand. During his visit, he inspected hospitals, residences, and relief camps housing displaced residents. He assured that the combined deployment of central forces and state police would help normalize the situation soon, and he plans to send a detailed report and recommendations to relevant authorities.

According to Raj Bhavan officials, Governor Bose may extend his visit to Murshidabad district itself to gain a fuller understanding of the situation. This move reflects a more proactive stance compared to the state government’s cautious approach toward managing the sensitive situation.

The communal clashes in Murshidabad’s Shamsherganj, Suti, Dhulian, and Jangipur areas on April 11 and 12 led to three fatalities and mass displacement. Many residents, fearing further violence, fled to neighboring Malda district where relief camps have been set up. Authorities confirmed that 274 people have been arrested for alleged involvement in rioting and vandalism, and joint security deployments continue to maintain peace.

In a parallel development, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has dispatched a team to Malda. The NHRC team is gathering testimonies and assessing living conditions at temporary shelters, with their report expected to contribute to further government actions on the matter.

Governor Bose’s visit has further intensified the political storm between the Trinamool Congress government and opposition parties like the BJP, which accuse the state administration of failing to maintain law and order and engaging in appeasement politics. As tensions rise, the violence’s political fallout is expected to echo through the coming weeks.