Will the BSF camp in Murshidabad remain amidst communal tensions?

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Will the BSF camp in Murshidabad remain amidst communal tensions?

Synopsis

The ongoing communal tensions in Murshidabad have led the Calcutta High Court to keep the BSF camp operational. As investigations continue, the state government faces pressure to address the aftermath of the unrest, highlighting the challenges in managing communal harmony in West Bengal.

Key Takeaways

  • BSF camp to remain in Murshidabad for ongoing investigations.
  • 583 arrests made related to communal violence.
  • State government directed to assess and compensate for damages.
  • Governor's report criticized the handling of communal tensions.
  • Next hearing set for September 18.

Kolkata, July 31 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court has decided that the Border Security Force (BSF) camp located at Samserganj in the minority-dominated district of Murshidabad, West Bengal, will remain operational until further notice. This decision follows the outbreak of communal tension and a riot-like scenario in April of this year.

A division bench comprising Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury determined that the BSF camp's presence is necessary as the West Bengal Police's special investigation team (SIT) has not yet concluded its inquiry into the disturbances.

Additionally, the bench instructed the state government to take necessary actions, including offering compensation after thoroughly assessing the damages caused by the April unrest.

The court also mandated the restoration of property affected by the violence. The case is scheduled for another hearing on September 18.

The SIT has already submitted subsequent charge sheets, and a total of 583 individuals have been arrested in connection with these events. In May, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose reported to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the violence in Murshidabad, recommending consideration of Article 356 of the Indian Constitution for possible implementation of Central rule.

The Governor criticized the West Bengal government for its inability to manage the communal strife, despite having previously dealt with Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) threats effectively. He emphasized the inadequacies in police infrastructure and resources, which often necessitates the involvement of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) during crises like the one in Murshidabad.

Point of View

It's essential to represent the facts around the communal tension in Murshidabad without bias. The court's ruling to maintain the BSF camp underscores the urgency of addressing security concerns while ensuring that justice is served for affected individuals. The government's ability to manage unrest will be closely scrutinized in the coming months.
NationPress
21/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the BSF camp established in Murshidabad?
The BSF camp was established to maintain law and order amid rising communal tensions in the area.
What prompted the High Court's ruling?
The High Court ruled to keep the BSF camp operational due to ongoing investigations into the communal disturbances.
How many arrests have been made related to the riots?
A total of 583 individuals have been arrested in connection with the riot-like situation in Murshidabad.
What actions has the West Bengal government been directed to take?
The government has been instructed to evaluate damages and provide compensation while also restoring property affected by the violence.
What did the Governor's report suggest?
The Governor's report highlighted the inadequacies in police infrastructure and recommended considering Central rule under Article 356.
Nation Press