West Bengal Governor Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose on Saturday toured relief camps in the violence-hit districts of Malda and Murshidabad, meeting with survivors and listening to their accounts of the recent unrest linked to protests over Waqf property issues.
The Governor’s visit follows days of tension in several pockets of the two districts after demonstrations escalated into clashes between protesters and law enforcement authorities. The violence left several injured and caused damage to public and private property, prompting the administration to set up temporary shelters for affected families.
Dr. Bose visited multiple camps set up by the district administration and interacted with residents displaced by the turmoil. Survivors shared harrowing accounts of arson, vandalism, and police action. Many claimed they had fled their homes in fear after the protests turned violent.
“The situation demands serious attention and immediate steps for peace and rehabilitation,” said Governor Bose, emphasizing the importance of restoring trust and law and order. “I am here to listen to the people and understand the ground realities so that suitable recommendations can be made.”
He assured the camp residents that their concerns would be conveyed to both the state and central governments. “Peace and justice are non-negotiable. We must ensure that innocent citizens are protected and their livelihoods restored,” he added.
Local officials accompanying the Governor stated that essential supplies, medical aid, and security arrangements were being strengthened in the camps. A fact-finding team is also expected to be formed to investigate the causes of the violence and assess damages.
Political reactions to the Governor’s visit have been mixed. While opposition parties welcomed his outreach and called for accountability, the state government maintained that normalcy was being restored and warned against politicizing the issue.
Tensions erupted earlier this week following a protest over alleged encroachments and management disputes involving Waqf properties. What began as a demonstration reportedly took a violent turn, leading to a crackdown by security forces.
Governor Bose is expected to submit a detailed report on his visit to the Union Home Ministry in the coming days. Meanwhile, the state administration has urged residents to maintain calm and cooperate with authorities as efforts to restore order continue.
