West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee calls for communal harmony in the wake of deadly Murshidabad clashes; blames BJP and RSS for stoking unrest for electoral gains.
Kolkata, April 20: In the aftermath of violence in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district that left three people dead, including a father-son duo, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued a passionate appeal for peace and unity while squarely blaming the BJP and RSS for what she termed “divisive politics” ahead of elections.
In a public letter, Banerjee condemned the unrest and urged both majority and minority communities to stand together against communal polarization.
“BJP and its allies, including RSS, are using the backdrop of an unfortunate incident to spread division and provoke communal tension. This is not just political opportunism—it is a danger to the very soul of Bengal,” she stated.
🕊️ Appeal for Peace, Swift Police Action
Banerjee emphasized that her government had taken strong administrative steps to control the situation and hold the guilty accountable.
“We have removed two police officers-in-charge and launched a thorough investigation. Law enforcement is acting swiftly and firmly,” she confirmed.
🔥 Political Blame Game Heats Up
The violence, which occurred during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act on April 11, resulted in multiple injuries, three fatalities, and displacement of families, some of whom fled to Jharkhand’s Pakur district, while others took refuge in relief camps in Malda.
Banerjee accused the BJP of using the unrest to destabilize the state for narrow political gains.
“They want riots to win elections. But we will not let Bengal fall into their trap. We condemn riots. We are against division. We want all communities to live in harmony,” she said.
⚖️ Call for Solidarity
Banerjee reiterated her stand on communal unity, stating that mutual trust between communities must be preserved at all costs.
“We love all. Riots affect everyone. Let us remain united and protect the secular fabric of Bengal,” she urged.
📍 Incident Recap
- Date of violence: April 11
- Location: Murshidabad district, West Bengal
- Casualties: 3 dead, several injured
- Cause: Clashes during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act
- Response: Police action, relief camps set up, multiple families displaced
🗳️ Election Context
With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, the political temperature in Bengal is on the rise. The BJP, which has made inroads in the state over the past few years, has been campaigning aggressively, while TMC is countering with appeals to Bengal’s secular ethos.