Kolkata: Internet access was restricted in parts of Murshidabad district of Bengal following a surge in communal tensions sparked by an message displayed at a local religious event. The message led to vandalism, arson, and injuries to several individuals from both communities.
The incident took place at Beldanga, where an illuminated display showed a phrase that was deemed insulting to Muslims. The Wire has seen videos that were shared of the purported message on social media but has not been able to independently verify them. Clashes took place in the area in response, locals and police said.
Authorities have arrested 17 people and claim to have brought the situation under control. However, tensions remain high.
“Tensions escalated due to a local issue. We are identifying the guilty individuals and taking appropriate action. I request everyone to cooperate with the police in maintaining law and order. I appeal to both parties not to take the law into their own hands,” said superintendent of police, Murshidabad, Surya Pratap Yadav.
Police are investigating how the offensive message ended up on the illuminated display. Heightened security measures were implemented in Beldanga on November 17 as well, as 163 puja committees organised a joint procession for the immersion of Jagaddhatri idols. The district police chief and local MP visited the area to oversee security operations.
“Such incidents have never happened here before. The police are investigating how a derogatory remark about a religious leader was written on a display at a festive arch. This remark provoked people from one community, leading to clashes with the police and injuries to several people. However, the situation is now relatively under control. I don’t think Kartik Maharaj has anything to do with this incident,” said Abu Taher Khan, MP, Murshidabad.
This story was originally published in thewire.in. Read the full story here.
