Violence again erupts in Bengal, CM transfers 2 Howrah top cops

Violent protests over the controversial comments on Prophet Mohammed continued in West Bengal on Saturday with the state government suspending internet services in parts of Murshidabad and Howrah districts and taking action against top police officials.

On Friday, nationwide protests were held against the comments made by former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal. The Centre has maintained that the remarks by individuals denigrating the religious personality “do not reflect the views of the government”.

In Bengal, fresh violence was reported from Howrah’s Panchla Bazaar after protesters allegedly clashed with the police and set several houses, shops and vehicles on fire. The administration has imposed prohibitory orders till June 15. Internet services remained suspended across the district till June 13, officials said. Several trains also were also cancelled. Internet services were also suspended in some areas of the Murshidabad district after some of the protesters pelted stones at the Beldanga police station on Friday.

Late on Saturday, 60 people were arrested in connection with violence Howrah district.

Clashes between the police and protestors were also reported from Rejinagar in Murshidabad district. At least 12 police personnel were injured. Protestors blocked the National Highway 34 for over two hours, and when the officials went to clear the road, they attacked the cops, said an official familiar with the matter. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse the mob, the official added.

“Police were just mute spectators. They hardly did anything as the mob went on a rampage. Many families have fled from the area as houses were set on fire,” said Asish Das, a local resident.