Has the Mamata Government Addressed Communal Violence Effectively?
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Synopsis
In a recent report, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose highlights the government's failure to address escalating communal violence, despite previous success against Left-Wing Extremism. His observations, drawn from a visit to Murshidabad, call for urgent action at both state and national levels.
Key Takeaways
- West Bengal faces challenges in managing communal violence.
- Governor C.V. Ananda Bose calls for police reforms.
- Importance of border security with Bangladesh.
- Proposal for a judicial inquiry into recent violence.
- Political implications of the Governor's findings.
Kolkata, May 4 (NationPress) The West Bengal administration has struggled to control communal violence in the state, even though it has previously managed to tackle Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) threats, noted West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose in a report submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
The report discusses the recent communal unrest in the minority-majority Murshidabad district stemming from protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act.
Based on his field observations during a visit to Murshidabad last month, an insider from Raj Bhavan in Kolkata revealed that the Governor pointed out significant issues regarding police resources in West Bengal, including inadequate manpower and equipment, which frequently leads to the need for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to be deployed in emergencies.
The Governor emphasized the urgent requirement for completing the barbed fencing at international borders in West Bengal districts adjacent to Bangladesh.
He raised alarms over increasing polarization, particularly in areas where Hindus have become a minority, citing cross-border infiltration from Bangladesh as a serious security threat.
The Governor has proposed the establishment of a statutory judicial commission to investigate the Murshidabad incident and has urged the Union government to intervene when the state government fails to act promptly.
He recommended setting up CAPF camps in sensitive regions, especially in Murshidabad and Malda, which are primarily minority-populated and border Bangladesh. Most critically, he suggested that the Union government contemplate using Article 356 if necessary to uphold law and order.
In response, Trinamool Congress state general secretary Kunal Ghosh denounced the Governor's report as politically motivated and biased in favor of the BJP.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the complexities of governance in West Bengal. While the report underscores significant challenges regarding communal violence, it is crucial to consider the broader socio-political context and the need for cooperative solutions between state and central authorities.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Governor's report address?
The report addresses the West Bengal government's failure to control communal violence, despite its success in combating Left-Wing Extremism.
What are the key recommendations from the report?
The report recommends establishing a judicial commission for inquiry, enhancing police infrastructure, and completing border fencing.
Who criticized the Governor's report?
Trinamool Congress state general secretary Kunal Ghosh criticized the report, labeling it biased and politically motivated.
What is the significance of Murshidabad in this context?
Murshidabad is highlighted due to recent communal violence linked to protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Act.
What security concerns did the Governor raise?
The Governor raised concerns about cross-border infiltration from Bangladesh and the need for CAPF presence in sensitive areas.
