Mamata Banerjee Likely to Visit Violence-Hit Murshidabad in May; Promises Swift Relief for Victims

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday assured the victims of the communal violence that broke out in Bengal’s Murshidabad of swift and comprehensive relief. Banerjee added that she would personally visit the violence hit areas during the first week of May. The recent spate of communal violence in Murshidabad that stemmed out of anti Waqf Amendment Act protests killed three people.

Speaking at a government event in Midnapore, Banerjee said that the unrest was limited to only two wards in the town and expressed deep concern over the incident. "There was a riot recently and that is very unfortunate. I do not want any riots. It happened in two wards, in Dhuliyan," said Mamata Banerjee adding that her government has already announced a sum of 10 lakh rupees as compensation for the bereaved families.

“For those whose homes have been damaged — new houses will be built. For shopkeepers who suffered losses — we’re conducting a survey,” she said. Banerjee assured that she would personally visit the area in early May to oversee relief efforts and ensure that all pending matters are addressed. “I will go there in the first week of May. I will personally visit, check everything, and take care of what remains. You can have that much faith in me. You can remain assured,” she added.

The violent communal clashes in Murshidabad broke out during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act and quickly escalated into widespread unrest. Incidents of arson, stone-pelting, and large-scale road blockades were reported across Dhulian and parts of Samserganj on 11 and 12 April. The violence claimed three lives and displaced hundreds of residents. According to the West Bengal Police, 60 FIRs have been registered and 274 individuals have been arrested in connection with the unrest.​