Tue May 06 00:56:41 UTC 2025: **West Bengal CM Blames BJP for Murshidabad Riots, Denies Responsibility**
KOLKATA, WEST BENGAL – Three weeks after communal riots claimed three lives and displaced hundreds in Murshidabad, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the affected district on May 5th, 2025. She vehemently denied responsibility for the violence, attributing it to a “planned incident” involving a small number of individuals, promising to expose them soon. She criticized those who were “provoked” during the riots and asserted her commitment to protecting all religious communities.
Ms. Banerjee accused the BJP of “foul play,” alleging they forcibly removed families affected by the violence to prevent them from meeting her. This, she claimed, amounted to “kidnapping.” She also challenged the BJP to focus on national security and justice for the victims instead of engaging in “nasty politics.” She plans to continue visiting affected areas.
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari countered, holding Ms. Banerjee accountable for the violence, arguing that she is responsible for the actions of local leaders who allegedly prioritized political agendas over public safety. CPI(M) leader Md. Salim criticized the Chief Minister for not explicitly naming those responsible for the riots.
Over 300 arrests have been made in connection with the April 11th and 12th riots, and 138 FIRs have been filed. The widows of two victims have petitioned the Calcutta High Court for a CBI investigation.
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