West Bengal Police Warns of Potential Communal Tensions During Ram Navami

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Warning issued by West Bengal Police regarding possible communal tension.
- Intelligence suggests attempts to instigate violence.
- Public urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
- Special measures being taken for upcoming festivals.
- Significant increase in planned rallies for Ram Navami.
Kolkata, March 29 (NationPress) The West Bengal Police issued a warning on Saturday regarding the potential for communal unrest in the state during the upcoming Ram Navami festival, slated for April 6.
The advisory was released during a joint press briefing led by Additional Director General (Law & Order) Javed Shamim and Additional Director General (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar.
Sarkar informed media representatives that they have received specific intelligence indicating that certain vested interests are attempting to provoke violence in the near future.
He stated, “There are schemes to provoke individuals via various posters or online posts. The police are prepared. There may be efforts to stir up tension between different communities, particularly around Ram Navami. We urge the public not to be provoked. There is no cause for alarm. However, we also encourage citizens to notify local police if they observe any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.”
Supporting Sarkar's statements, Shamim emphasized that special measures are being implemented in light of the forthcoming festive days.
“Both Eid and Ram Navami will be celebrated. Some vested interests may try to incite discord and tension among people. Do not be swayed by rumors. Stay vigilant in your areas. Report any suspicious activities to the police. We are available to assist you around the clock. We are committed to ensuring that no attempts to disrupt the state’s peaceful environment succeed,” Shamim remarked.
Previously, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had also warned citizens about potential efforts to incite communal discord in the state, particularly advising police to be vigilant in areas near the international borders with Bangladesh.
Recent reports highlighted communal clashes in Mothabari, located in the Malda district.
Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari, recently announced that approximately 2,000 rallies, both large and small, are expected to take place this year for Ram Navami.
He further stated that participation in these rallies is anticipated to double compared to last year.
“This year, Ram Navami will be observed on a grand scale. I will be present on the streets that day. Last year, around 50 lakh Hindus participated in rallies for Ram Navami. There were approximately 1,000 rallies last year. This year, we expect 2,000 rallies with nearly one crore Hindus participating,” he claimed.