Violence broke out in Maheshtala, South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, on June 10 following a dispute over the setting up of a fruit stall, which allegedly led to the vandalism of a Shiva temple. The incident triggered clashes between two groups, involving stone pelting, arson of vehicles, and the use of tear gas by the police to control the mob.

Authorities swiftly imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the affected areas on the same day, restricting public gatherings and movement. Police deployment was significantly increased, and as of June 11, 40 people have been arrested, with raids continuing to nab other suspects.

Political Firestorm: BJP vs Trinamool Congress

The incident has snowballed into a major political flashpoint. On June 12, West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar attempted to visit the family of the affected Hindu community in Maheshtala. However, due to the prohibitory orders under Section 163 BNSS, police did not allow him to proceed to the area.

From midway, Majumdar changed course and headed toward the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s residence, intending to symbolically hand over a Tulsi plant—a sacred Hindu offering—as a gesture of solidarity with the Hindu community. However, before he could reach the CM’s residence, Majumdar was detained by Kolkata Police and taken to Lalbazar, the headquarters of Kolkata Police.

Parties Trade Charges

While the BJP demanded central intervention and blamed the state government for its “failure to protect religious sentiments,” the Trinamool Congress (TMC) dismissed the allegation of a communal motive. The TMC accused the BJP of politicising a local issue and attempting to create unrest.

Police officials confirmed that the situation remains tense but under control. “Raids are still underway, and additional personnel have been deployed across sensitive pockets to prevent further flare-ups,” a senior officer stated.