Remarks come amid clashes in Murshidabad, with police imposing restrictions and making arrests
Kolkata, March 28 —Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Saturday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of instigating violence during Ram Navami processions in West Bengal, following clashes reported in parts of Murshidabad district. Addressing a rally in Labhpur in Birbhum, Banerjee said the state has traditionally witnessed peaceful celebrations across religious festivals and questioned why incidents of unrest were being linked specifically to Ram Navami in recent years.
His remarks come a day after violence broke out during Ram Navami processions in Murshidabad, where incidents of stone-pelting, vandalism and arson were reported. Authorities responded by imposing prohibitory orders in sensitive areas such as Raghunathganj and Jangipur, while police arrested around 30 individuals in connection with the clashes. Security has since been tightened in the district to prevent further escalation, and investigations are ongoing to determine responsibility.
Without directly naming any specific incident, Banerjee alleged that BJP leaders and affiliated groups bring in “outsiders” during such processions, claiming that these individuals contribute to tensions by engaging in provocative activities. He also raised concerns over alleged displays of weapons and public misconduct during rallies, though these claims have not been independently verified.
The TMC leader emphasised that West Bengal has a long-standing tradition of communal harmony, where festivals such as Durga Puja, Eid, Christmas and others are celebrated without significant disturbances. He suggested that the recent incidents reflect a departure from that pattern and linked them to the presence of certain political actors during processions.
The developments highlight the growing sensitivity around religious events in the state, where political narratives often intersect with law-and-order concerns. Authorities typically deploy additional forces during major festivals to ensure public safety, and the latest incidents have once again brought attention to the need for strict enforcement of regulations during large gatherings.
Banerjee also referred to the BJP’s electoral performance, claiming the party faced setbacks in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and would encounter similar outcomes in upcoming contests. As investigations continue and security measures remain in place, the immediate focus for the administration is on restoring normalcy and ensuring that upcoming religious events are conducted peacefully without further incidents.
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited by Madhusudhan Reddy
Last Updated on: Saturday, March 28, 2026 7:58 pm by Madhusudhan Reddy | Published by: Madhusudhan Reddy on Saturday, March 28, 2026 7:58 pm | News Categories: Kolkata, Trending