Violent clashes between two groups in West Bengal’s Birbhum district led to the suspension of internet services in several areas, triggering political controversy. The state government has also deployed a heavy security presence to maintain law and order.
Internet Suspended in Sainthia Town
Officials confirmed that internet and voice-over-internet telephony services were suspended in five Gram Panchayat areas of Sainthia town from March 14 to March 17 to prevent the spread of misinformation and unlawful activities. However, there are no restrictions on voice calls, SMS, or newspapers, ensuring communication is not entirely disrupted.
BJP Slams TMC Over Law and Order Situation
The internet shutdown has sparked criticism from the Opposition. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari accused the state government of failing to control the situation, calling the move an “acceptance of incapability.” He further alleged that the TMC government was attempting to suppress reports of communal violence to save face.
Taking to social media platform X, Adhikari stated, “The West Bengal Government is trying their best to hide the events of communal flare-ups. I urge @HMOIndia and His Excellency, the Hon’ble @BengalGovernor, to seek a report from the Chief Secretary (@chief_west) regarding the deterioration of the law and order situation in the state.”
What Happened in Birbhum?
According to reports, the violence erupted in Sainthia town on Friday during Holi celebrations. A verbal altercation between a group of people and intoxicated individuals escalated into stone-pelting and physical clashes. Several locals sustained injuries before police intervened with a mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.
BJP Alleges State Government is Covering Up Violence
Suvendu Adhikari also claimed that similar clashes occurred in other parts of West Bengal, including Tamluk and Nandakumar. He urged the Home Ministry, Bengal Governor, and Chief Secretary to intervene and review the state’s law and order situation.
Sources By Agencies
