West Bengal: Tensions persist in Malda's Mothabari, 57 arrested so far

Tensions persist in Mothabari, located in West Bengal's Malda district, following 'communal' clashes that erupted last week.

The violence, which involved arson, vandalism, and assaults, led the district administration to suspend internet services and impose prohibitory orders to restore order. As per latest reports, authorities have arrested 57 individuals in connection with the unrest.

The clashes began after a preparatory rally for Ram Navami passed near a local mosque, leading to allegations of firecrackers being thrown near the place of worship.

The incident escalated tensions, resulting in road blockades and confrontations with law enforcement. In response, a significant police presence has been deployed, including the establishment of 25 police pickets across sensitive areas and the activation of seven mobile patrol units for rapid response.

Calcutta High Court has taken cognizance of the situation, directing the district magistrate and superintendent of police in Malda to submit an action taken report by 3 April.

Authorities continue to urge residents to maintain peace and refrain from spreading or heeding rumors, emphasising that any attempts at rumor-mongering or misuse of social media will be dealt with strictly according to the law.

The situation remains closely monitored as law enforcement agencies work to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the affected areas.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Isha Khan Choudhury has called for the immediate deployment of paramilitary forces alongside the police in Mothabari following the recent clashes.

In a letter to superintendent of police Pradeep Kumar Yadav, Choudhury emphasised the need for enhanced security measures, including foot patrols and route marches, to restore peace and harmony in the affected regions.

"I request the immediate deployment of police and paramilitary forces for patrolling, including foot patrols and route marches, along certain routes to maintain peace and harmony," he said.

Choudhury, who represents the Malda Dakshin Lok Sabha constituency, suggested that the routes of patrolling by security forces cover the stretch from Englishbazar Badhapukur to Mothabari and Sustani to Madhughat.

Choudhury's appeal underscores the urgency of deploying additional security forces to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of residents in the clash-hit areas.

He urged the police authorities to take "swift and necessary action at the earliest to restore peace and order".

With PTI inputs