NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Bengal unit has set up special helpline numbers to assist displaced Hindus who have taken refuge in Malda after fleeing violent clashes in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district.
In a statement on social media, BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar said: “Visited a special control room set up to help the oppressed Hindus who have taken shelter in Malda from various parts of Murshidabad due to the barbaric torture by violent fundamentalist forces.”
“To ensure that any incident of attack on innocent Hindus can be reported immediately, two special helpline numbers have been provided – 9339911793 and 8670376144,” he said in a post on X.
This comes in the wake of communal violence that erupted on Friday in areas including Suti, Dhulian, Samserganj, and Jangipur, leaving three people dead, several injured, and prompting hundreds to flee across the Bhagirathi River into neighbouring Malda.
While a senior police officer told news agency PTI the situation in the affected areas is now peaceful and under control, strict prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in force. Internet services continue to be suspended, and security forces including BSF, RAF, and state police are conducting route marches and vehicle checks.
According to police, 180 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, which reportedly stemmed from protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. At least 18 police personnel were injured, and several police vans, kiosks, and shops were damaged or set on fire.
In Malda, the local administration has set up relief centres in schools, providing food and shelter for the displaced families. Volunteers have been deployed along the riverbanks to help new arrivals.
Streets in the affected areas remain largely deserted, with businesses shut and residents indoors. Authorities remain on high alert to prevent any further escalation.