What’s Behind the Political Tensions in Beldanga?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political tensions are escalating in Beldanga following the murder of a migrant worker.
- Opposition parties are criticizing the ruling government for its handling of law and order.
- Accusations of conspiracy highlight the complex political dynamics in West Bengal.
- Police intervention has become necessary to restore order.
Kolkata, Jan 17 (NationPress) A fierce political battle has erupted in West Bengal regarding the unrest in Beldanga, located in Murshidabad district. This follows the reported murder of a migrant worker from the district in Jharkhand on Saturday. Opposition parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party, CPI(M), and Congress, have criticized the Mamata Banerjee administration, labeling the situation as a complete failure of governance. Conversely, the Trinamool Congress has suggested that this unrest is a result of a "well-coordinated conspiracy" aimed at agitating the populace in the district.
BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra accused the ruling party of attempting to "alienate West Bengal from the rest of India." He stated, "The level of appeasement politics has escalated to such an extent that it appears the legal framework of the nation is disregarded in West Bengal. Are we not part of India? Constitutional rights and democratic norms are being violated here," Patra asserted.
Sataraup Ghosh, a Youth CPI(M) leader, expressed concern over the "lawlessness" prevailing in West Bengal, suggesting that offenders are aware that their supporters dominate the state administration, allowing them to operate freely. "This predicament showcases a total breakdown of law and order due to a lethargic state government that prioritizes backing anti-social elements," Ghosh remarked.
Former state Congress president and five-time Lok Sabha representative from the district, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, acknowledged that while the mistreatment of migrant workers is inexcusable, it does not justify violent protests. "It is regrettable that our Chief Minister seems to tacitly endorse such violence rather than take decisive action against the culprits. Journalists are facing violence, while the Chief Minister suggests they avoid confrontations with the mob," Chowdhury pointed out.
Trinamool Congress spokesperson Arup Chakraborty stated that the administration and law enforcement will certainly act to restore order, but emphasized that there is evidently a "well-orchestrated conspiracy" aiming to provoke the citizens in the district. "Certain individuals appear to be seeking casualties to exploit politically," he added.
In response to the escalating chaos, police deployed baton charges to disperse the crowd and remove roadblocks.