Following the Supreme Court’s remarks on the Malda violence case in West Bengal, the Election Commission has ordered a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the incident. NIA teams have started their investigation. So far, 35 people have been arrested, including the main conspirator, lawyer Mofakkarul Islam. West Bengal police apprehended him at Bagdogra airport while he was reportedly attempting to flee.
Islam stated that he had reached the site to assist in a protest related to deletion of names of certain Muslim voters but denied leading the movement. He explained, “I was passing from Kolkata to Alipurduar and gave a speech near the protest. I did not stop any judge or take part in the main incident. I was traveling on the national highway when the event happened in Mothabari, which is why I was arrested at Bagdogra airport.”
Details of the Malda incident
The violence in Kaliachak, Malda, escalated when seven judicial officers were held hostage for nearly eight hours by protesters. The situation became serious enough to require Supreme Court intervention. Following this, the Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court spoke to West Bengal’s DGP, leading to the release of the trapped officials.
During a Supreme Court hearing, the Chief Justice described the incident as a “planned conspiracy” and criticized the law and order situation in the state. He also mentioned that the Election Commission could direct a CBI or NIA investigation, prompting the immediate NIA action.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described the incident as an attempt to defame the state.
