Malda violence explained: Muslim mob ransack police stations, burn vehicles

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oi-Preeti

Serious communal clashes in Malda district of West Bengal have been reported. The violence-related incidents were reported from Sujapur, a Muslim-dominated village in Kaliachak block of Malda district.

The reason why the fierce protest erupted in Malda is a statement given by self-proclaimed Hindu leader Kamlesh Tiwari on Prophet Mohammad, that termed him as 'gay'.

Here's all you need to know about the recent violence and clashes in Malda, ahead of assembly elections in West Bengal this year. Hindu population is said to be only 30% in Kaliachak area. [Malda Mayhem: 10 people arrested; BJP slams Trinamool for violence]

How a Muslim mob of 2.5 lakh strength protested?

Anjuman Ahle Sunnatul Jamat (ASJ), a Muslim organisation had held a protest rally to demand the arrest of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha leader Kamlesh Tiwari for making derogatory statement against Prophet Mohammad.

ASJ members alleged that a BSF vehicle could not made way from the road, where they were rallying. That led to an altercation between the BSF jawans and ASJ members.

Kaliachak Police station, block development office and public property were vandalised on Sunday, Jan 3.

Several vehicles were set ablaze and over 30 persons including police officers were injured.

Vehicles and a NBSTC bus were stranded on NH-34 and protesters squatted on railway tracks of Khaltipur railway station for over six hours, that led to disruption of train services. When police intervened, clashes broke out.

Shani-temple, Durga Temple and other Hindu temples were also attacked at Baliadanga, a residential area behind the police station and other places. Around 25 Hindu houses and shops were also ransacked.

It took hours for police to bring the situation under control, after several shots of blank firing. Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel were also called in.

A 22-year-old RSS activist Gopal Tiwari sustained a gunshot. However, there is no curfew like situation, as of now.

Action against Kamlesh Tiwari