Kolkata: Violence broke out in parts of Murshidabad district on Friday during a Ram Navami procession in Raghunathganj under the Jangipur subdivision, injuring approximately 45 people and triggering widespread tension in the area. The administration confirmed that the situation has now been brought under control following the deployment of central forces, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), along with local police.
According to officials, several injured individuals are currently undergoing treatment at the Jangipur Sub-Divisional Hospital. Security forces continue to patrol sensitive areas to prevent further escalation.
As per local sources, Ram Navami processions were organised across the subdivision, with smaller rallies from different villages converging at Mackenzie Park in Raghunathganj, following an annual tradition.
Trouble reportedly began in the Sisatala area under the jurisdiction of Raghunathganj Police Station, where participants in one of the processions allegedly made derogatory remarks targeting the Muslim community. When local residents protested, a verbal altercation ensued, which quickly escalated into a volatile situation.
Tensions intensified further at Phultala Crossing when the main procession reached the area. Eyewitnesses alleged that a section of the processionists vandalised several shops belonging to Muslims and set some of them ablaze. In addition, vehicles—including cars, motorcycles, and vans—were reportedly damaged, spreading panic across the locality.
Locals Allege Premeditated Attacks as Shops and Rallies Targeted
Residents claimed that the attacks were targeted and premeditated. Some alleged that religious flags and posters put up during Eid celebrations—bearing messages such as “I Love Muhammad”—were torn down during the procession. There were also allegations of stone-pelting directed at shops and residential houses.
A local resident, Bariul Islam, stated that the area had long been known for communal harmony but was disrupted by “outsiders” who allegedly carried out the attacks.
Eyewitness accounts further described scenes of chaos. A fruit vendor claimed that a procession of nearly 2,000 people suddenly turned violent, assaulting him and vandalising his shop. Another trader alleged that Muslim-owned establishments—including fruit stalls, eateries, and small businesses—were specifically targeted, looted, and set on fire.
Mofizul Islam, Chairman of the Jangipur Municipality, questioned the role of law enforcement, alleging that “even in the presence of police, attackers selectively targeted shops,” and suggested that the violence appeared to be pre-planned.
Local residents also expressed anger over the losses suffered by small business owners, raising concerns about compensation and accountability. Some questioned whether the real perpetrators would be brought to justice, pointing to previous instances of unrest in nearby areas such as Shamsherganj and Omarpur.
On the other hand, BJP’s Jangipur organisational district president, Subal Chandra Ghosh, rejected the allegations, claiming that the violence was orchestrated to disrupt the Ram Navami procession. He alleged that stones were thrown at the procession and also criticised police action, accusing them of using force against party workers.
The incident triggered sharp political reactions across parties. Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury criticised the administration, calling the violence “deeply concerning and condemnable,” and questioned why preventive measures were not taken despite the scale of the procession.
Jangipur TMC MP Khalilur Rahaman condemned the violence and urged people to maintain communal harmony, stressing the long-standing coexistence between communities in Murshidabad. He also called for an impartial investigation and swift arrests.
Trinamool Congress leader and former state minister Zakir Hossain appealed for calm and stated that he had contacted the police to ensure the immediate restoration of law and order.
ISF chairman Nawsad Siddique alleged that there was a “deliberate conspiracy” to destabilise the district for political gain and urged residents not to fall prey to communal provocation.
30 Arrested Including RSS Leader; Bengal CM Blames ‘Planned Riots’
According to police sources, 30 individuals—including an RSS leader—have been arrested in connection with the unrest. Those arrested include RSS leader Kingshuk Bhattacharya and Hindu nationalist leader Babai Chakraborty.
Security forces, including central paramilitary units and RAF personnel, were deployed promptly after the violence was reported. Officials said that the joint operation helped bring the situation under control.
Ajeet Singh Yadav, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Murshidabad Range, confirmed that the situation is currently stable. He stated that several individuals have been arrested and that police forces remain deployed in the area. An investigation into the incident is underway.
Mamata Banerjee Alleges ‘Planned Riots’, Warns Strict Action
On Saturday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed a public rally at Khandra Football Ground in Raniganj. Referring to the clashes that took place in Raghunathganj on Friday (March 27), Mamata alleged, “Officers were transferred in order to orchestrate riots. Who gave anyone the authority to incite such violence? Money is being pumped in. No one will be spared.”
She further added, “I expect those currently in charge to act impartially and maintain peace and order in the area. No one will be spared.”
The Trinamool Congress supremo also alleged that Ram Navami processions were carried out while openly brandishing weapons, yet no action was taken. She expressed regret over the clashes between the two groups and apologised for the alleged laxity of the administration, which is currently under the control of the Election Commission.
Amid rising tensions, leaders and residents alike have called for restraint and communal harmony. Authorities have urged citizens not to spread or believe rumours as the administration continues its efforts to stabilise the region. While the situation is presently under control, the incident has raised serious concerns about law and order and communal tensions ahead of the upcoming elections in West Bengal.
Civil Society Demands Accountability and Compensation for Victims
Condemning the violence, the SUCI (Communist) party submitted a deputation to the Superintendent of Police of Jangipur Police District, demanding strict action against those responsible. The party called for the identification of culprits through CCTV footage and media evidence and urged the government to provide immediate compensation to those affected by arson and looting.
They also appealed to the administration to conduct public awareness campaigns to counter rumours and maintain peace.
