Violence breaks out during SIR hearing at Malda district school, tension grips area

The SIR hearing centre at Malda District School in English Bazar town witnessed violent scenes on Monday afternoon after a dispute over standing in line spiralled into a fierce clash. The incident led to fresh tension in the area, with chaos unfolding in full view of the police.

According to local accounts, two groups of villagers who had arrived for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing got into an argument over queue positions. The situation quickly escalated into a physical fight, during which even several women were allegedly attacked. An elderly woman standing in line reportedly fell during the scuffle and sustained injuries. Despite the presence of police personnel at the hearing centre, it is alleged that no immediate action was taken even after verbal complaints were made. A large contingent from the English Bazar police station later reached the spot, but by then the clash had already intensified.

Asif Iqbal, an elected Congress member from Jadupur 1 Gram Panchayat in English Bazar block, was allegedly attacked during the violence. Following this, a group of Congress workers reportedly retaliated by attacking voters from the Budhia area of Narhatta Gram Panchayat who had also come for the hearing. The incident has once again raised concerns over law and order during SIR hearings in the district.