TV
Marking a major development in the investigation of the recent communal violence in West Bengal's Murshidabad district, the Special Task Force (STF) of the West Bengal Police arrived in Jharsuguda on Monday.
Sources reported that the team began interrogating 14 individuals at the Banharpali police station, seeking insights into the riots that erupted earlier this month. They are suspected of being involved in the riots. Reports suggested many are hiding in Odisha to evade arrest.
Further details on the investigation are awaited.
Background of the Murshidabad Violence
The unrest in Murshidabad began in early April 2025, following protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
Demonstrations, initially peaceful, escalated into violent clashes in areas such as Jangipur and Umarpur. Protesters blocked National Highway 12, set police vehicles on fire, and disrupted train services at Nimtita railway station.
STF's Operation in Jharsuguda
The West Bengal STF's presence in Jharsuguda is part of a broader effort to trace individuals who may have fled the state following the riots.
The 14 persons being questioned are believed to have connections to the violence in Murshidabad. The interrogation aims to uncover details about the planning and execution of the attacks, as well as to identify other potential suspects.
Political Reactions and Ongoing Investigations
The violence in Murshidabad has prompted varied political reactions. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that the violence was pre-planned and blamed external forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF) and certain political parties.
In response to the unrest, the West Bengal Police formed a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incidents. The SIT has already made several arrests, including that of Ziaul Sheikh, a prime accused in the double murder case, who was apprehended from his hideout in Uttar Dinajpur district.
