MHA forms four-member team to probe post-poll violence in WB
The Union Home Ministry has formed a four-member fact-finding team to look into the reasons for the post-poll violence in West Bengal and also assess the ground situation in the state, the officials said on Thursday. The team, led by an additional secretary of the ministry, has left for the state of West Bengal.
WB government asked to submit detailed report on post-poll violence
On Wednesday, the ministry had sent a terse reminder to the West Bengal government to submit a detailed report on the post-poll violence and to take necessary measures to stop such incidents "without any loss of time." The ministry had warned that the matter will be taken "seriously" in case the state fails to do so.
Six people killed in post-poll violence in West Bengal
At least six people were killed in post-poll violence in different parts of the state till Tuesday. The BJP has alleged that TMC-backed goons have killed a number of its workers, attacked women members, vandalized houses, looted shops of its members, and ransacked its offices.
BJP alleged 'TMC goons' vandalized several of its offices
The BJP also alleged that one of its party offices in the Hooghly district was set on fire. The party also said that "TMC goons" vandalized several of its offices, including one in the Nandigram constituency where BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari defeated the chief minister. The TMC supporters also reportedly pelted stones at Adhikari's vehicle.
Despicable attempt to create atmosphere of violence: Adhikari
Mamata Banerjee's silence speaks of her involvement: BJP party president
Claiming that at least 14 BJP workers were killed and nearly one lakh people fled their homes in post-poll violence in West Bengal, party President JP Nadda alleged on Wednesday that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's silence speaks of her involvement. Banerjee rejected the charges, saying violence and clashes were taking place in those areas where the BJP candidates emerged victorious in the election.
Banerjee calls for peace; accuses BJP of 'spreading lies'
Blaming the BJP for the violence, Banerjee had appealed for peace and warned supporters against falling prey to provocation. She accused the BJP of "spreading lies using old pictures of riots that did not take place in Bengal," according to a report by The Indian Express. "But even then, I will urge everybody to maintain peace and not to resort to violence," she said.