Violence erupts in Murshidabad. Islamists indulge in violence as they attacked the Ram Navami Procession
MURSHIDABAD: What began as a religious procession soon spiralled into chaos in Raghunathganj town of Murshidabad, as clashes erupted between groups at three different locations. According to initial reports, tensions escalated after an Islamist allegedly attempted to remove the saffron flag and replace it with another, triggering a confrontation that quickly spread across nearby areas.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that disputes over loud music played during the procession further aggravated the situation. As arguments intensified, violence broke out, leading to injuries and widespread panic among residents. The procession, which was headed towards Mackenzie Park, became the epicentre of the unrest.
The clashes soon took a destructive turn, with several shops and establishments targeted by mobs. Incidents of arson and looting were reported, as multiple stores were set ablaze, causing significant damage to property. The violence left local businesses shattered and residents fearful for their safety.
Police were forced to resort to lathi charges to disperse the crowd and regain control. Reinforcements, including personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), were deployed swiftly to contain the situation. Authorities conducted flag marches across sensitive areas to reassure the public and prevent further escalation.
In response to the violence, the administration imposed Section 144, prohibiting the assembly of four or more people. Security has been significantly tightened, with continuous monitoring in and around the affected areas.
DIG of the area, Ajit Singh Yadav, declared that authorities are trying to identify the culprits using CCTV footage and vowed to take strict action against the perpetrators.
“In view of the clash that took place at the Ram Navami procession, we have deployed additional forces and senior officers. Currently, the situation is under control; as you can see, traffic has returned to normal. However, we have dispatched our raid teams, and raids are being conducted at various locations. Additional forces from the CRPF and CAPF are also arriving from outside to properly normalise and dominate the area. The culprits will not be spared; we are identifying them using CCTV footage. We will take strict action against whoever was involved, and no one will be spared,” Yadav told reporters.
The incident has triggered sharp political reactions, especially with assembly elections in West Bengal scheduled later this year. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari condemned the incident, calling it an insult to religious sentiments and accusing the ruling dispensation of failing to maintain law and order.
The opposition has alleged that repeated incidents of such clashes reflect deeper governance issues, while the ruling establishment has yet to issue a detailed response. The timing of the violence has intensified concerns about communal harmony and electoral security.
