Murshidabad, West Bengal: A team from the National Commission for Women (NCW), led by Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, visited the violence-affected areas in Murshidabad, West Bengal, on Saturday morning to meet with victims and offer support. The NCW delegation expressed deep concern over the “inhuman suffering” the affected families have endured and assured them of the central government’s intervention to ensure their safety.
Violence Sparks Widespread Displacement
The violence in Murshidabad erupted during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which led to the displacement of several families, most of whom are reportedly Hindu. The victims, including women who had faced harassment, demanded the establishment of permanent BSF camps in some areas for their protection. They also called for an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the communal clashes.
NCW’s Direct Interaction with Victims
Following reports of atrocities, especially against women, the NCW Chairperson emphasized the commission’s commitment to directly engaging with the victims to understand their plight. Rahatkar condemned the violence and atrocities, stating that such actions against women are unacceptable and should not be tolerated.
“We received disturbing reports about the harassment of women, and we are here to hear directly from the victims,” Rahatkar said. The NCW has taken suo motu cognizance of the situation and set up an inquiry committee to investigate the events surrounding the violence.
Governor’s Visit to Murshidabad
West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose is also set to visit the affected areas in Shamsherganj on Saturday to assess the situation firsthand. The Governor’s visit follows reports of communal clashes in the district from April 8-12, which resulted in three fatalities and significant damage. He is expected to visit other violence-affected regions, including Dhulian, Suti, and Jangipur.
Political Reactions and Calls for Justice
Amid the unrest, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the youth wing of the BJP, is organizing a ‘Save Bengali Hindus’ rally in Kolkata, which will take place later today. The rally, led by Suvendu Adhikari, will start at the ancestral residence of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and proceed to the house of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee.
The Calcutta High Court granted permission for the rally following a petition from the organizers. The protest aims to bring attention to the ongoing issues faced by the Hindu community in the state.
State Government’s Response
In response to the violence, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and housing support under the Banglar Bari scheme for those who lost their homes during the clashes.
Meanwhile, authorities have arrested over 274 individuals in connection with the violence, and the investigation into the riots is ongoing.
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