Calcutta HC demands action report from Malda SP & DM over Mothabari unrest

The Calcutta High Court has taken strong note of the recent riots in Mothabari, Malda, directing the district's Superintendent of Police (SP) and District Magistrate (DM) to submit an action taken report immediately. Justice Soumen Sen's division bench has ordered the report to be filed by Wednesday, emphasizing the state's responsibility to ensure security in the area.

Addressing the situation, the court stated that the central government does not need to intervene at this moment but made it clear that the state must restore peace. The bench also ordered the state administration to review all available video footage, including Facebook Live recordings, to assess the extent of the violence and identify those responsible.

Meanwhile, the state government defended its handling of the situation. During the hearing, the state's lawyer presented statistics, claiming that law enforcement had brought the situation under control. According to government figures, only two shops were damaged during the riots, and 300 police personnel, including 7 inspectors and 5 DSPs, have been deployed. Additionally, the state confirmed that 25 arrests had already been made.

Despite the state's assurances, tensions remain high in the border area of North Bengal, with opposition parties raising concerns over security. The BJP has accused the ruling party of inaction, alleging that the government has failed to contain the violence effectively. BSF personnel have already been mobilized to help maintain order, and BJP leaders are now demanding further reinforcements.

BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar’s faction has urged the Union Home Ministry to deploy additional security forces. BJP MLA Srirupa Mitra Chowdhury expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that he had already ordered BSF reinforcements to the region.