Will the BSF camp in Murshidabad remain amidst communal tensions?

Synopsis
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.