West Bengal’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president, Samik Bhattacharya, has urged for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into a recent incident in Malda district. This request comes on the heels of unrest following an event where several judicial officers were allegedly held hostage by locals amidst ongoing protests regarding electoral roll revisions.

Bhattacharya attributed the unrest to remarks made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, claiming that her statements may incite further turmoil in the region. He reiterated his party’s stance that minorities have faced hardships during the governance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), stating, “Statistics from recent years indicate that minorities have suffered under TMC rule, and we need an inquiry into the Malda situation.”

On February 1, 2025, tensions escalated as seven judicial officers, including three women, were reportedly taken hostage by villagers. This confrontation was part of a larger wave of protests against mass deletions from electoral rolls, executed during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

Protests and Arrests in Malda District

The protests in Malda resulted in multiple road blockades across national highways, state routes, and several key rural passages impacting at least five Assembly constituencies. Local reports indicated that the demonstrations paralysed normal activities in the region, leading to widespread disruption for residents and commuters alike.

In response to the unrest, Additional Director General of Police (North Bengal) K Jayaraman disclosed that 35 individuals had been detained so far concerning the hostage situation. He emphasised the authorities’ commitment to maintaining order, stating that further violence would not be tolerated.

Jayaram also revealed that one individual, Mofakkarul Islam, was apprehended at Bagdogra Airport for allegedly inciting unrest and was heading to his residence in Ithar. The police announced intentions to thoroughly investigate whether the events were premeditated, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation.

Political Tensions Intensify Ahead of Elections

In light of the situation, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of attempting to deliberately provoke unrest in Malda. She alleged that external forces were brought in to incite violence, thus fueling the already heightened political climate as the state approaches its Assembly elections.

Political stakeholders are gearing up for the forthcoming elections to the 294-member West Bengal Assembly, which are set to occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the counting of votes planned for May 4. The tense dynamic between the BJP and the state government may significantly influence voter sentiment.

This incident in Malda, along with escalating political allegations, has created an environment of uncertainty and concern among citizens as they head towards the electoral process. Many people are watching closely how these developments will unfold in the coming weeks.

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