Competitive communalism in Bengal sparks violence

As the 2026 Assembly elections approach in West Bengal, competitive communalism by the two main political parties - the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - is leading to tensions and violence in different parts of the State.

- SUPROTIM MUKHERJEE

On Wednesday, during a time when Muslims are observing Ramadan, police said that a preparatory rally for Ram Navami passed a local mosque in Mothabari in Malda district. A section of people alleged that firecrackers were thrown near the mosque.

On Thursday, as the news spread, people blocked local roads. When police tried to lift the blockade, stones were allegedly pelted at the police and their vehicle ransacked. Police used baton charges and lobbed tear gas shells to control the mob.

The mob then allegedly ransacked public vehicles and shops in the area. The fresh protests erupted on Friday and were quickly controlled by police.

Videos of the violence went viral on social media. The videos showed a mob marching on the roads and vandalising public property. It was claimed on social media that a Muslim mob is selectively targeting business establishments owned by Hindus in the area. To stop the spread of incendiary videos following the clashes between the two communities, the authorities suspended internet services and issued prohibitory orders in the Mothabari area and surrounding areas in Malda.

The videos were shared by several politicians, including BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari and BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar. Sharing the video on X, BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari alleged that the shops of Hindus were being selectively targeted by certain miscreants at Mothabari. He urged the senior police officials to take strong action to prevent the attacks.

Adhikari accused the West Bengal Government and the ruling Trinamool Congress of preparing the blueprint for "Greater Bangladesh" through appeasement politics.