Centre Asks Bengal Government To End Political Violence In State, But Mamata Says All Is ‘Under Control’

Responding to an advisory issued by the Union Government expressing deep concern over the continuing violence in West Bengal even after the conclusion of the Lok Sabha polls, the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday ( Jun 9) claimed that situation in the state was "under control" barring few "stray post-poll clashes" in West Bengal

The Union government issued an advisory after four people died in violent clashes between workers of the Trinamool Congress and the BJP in Bhangipara, Hatgacha in North 24 Parganas.

"The unabated violence over the past weeks appears to be a failure on the part of the law enforcement machinery of the state to maintain the the rule of law and inspire confidence among people," the Ministry Of Home Affairs (MHA) advisory said.

“It’s strongly advised to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquility. It’s also requested to take strict action against officials found delinquent in discharge of their duty,” MHA advisory to West Bengal Government added.

West Bengal State Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De responded to the Centre’s advisory by stating that "firm and appropriate actions" were initiated in all cases of violence without any delay.

"There have been a few stray post-poll clashes in the state perpetrated by some anti-social elements, the law enforcement authorities have been taking firm and appropriate actions in all such cases without any delay," De wrote in the letter to the Union Home Ministry.

At least three three workers of BJP were killed during the clashes that broke out on Saturday in the Najat area of Basirhat’s Sandeshkhali.

Party workers had clashed over taking off party flags, leading to injuries on both sides. Besides the three BJP workers, one TMC supporter also reportedly died.

Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National general secretary, said on Sunday that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has sought a report from the state government.

“Union Home Minister has asked for a report from the state government and I am sure Centre will take this up seriously. There is a lot of anger among the people over the incident,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.

BJP leader Mukul Roy had on Saturday accused West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee of the clashes.

Several BJP workers and police personnel were injured on Saturday after clashes broke out between the two sides over a victory rally being taken out by the saffron party at Gangarampur area of North Dinajpur district.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on Thursday said victory rallies will not be allowed by any party in West Bengal, including the ruling Trinamool Congress.