Governor Bose Heads to Malda Amid Tensions, May Visit Riot-Hit Murshidabad; NCW Chief to Assess Impact on Women

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on Friday embarked on a visit to Malda district, where he is expected to meet victims of the recent communal violence in Murshidabad. Several affected families have reportedly taken shelter in Malda following the outbreak of violence.

Speaking briefly before his departure, Bose said, “I am going to the field,” as quoted by PTI. A senior official at Raj Bhavan confirmed that the governor may extend his visit to Murshidabad as well, where the communal violence occurred. “The Honourable Governor will personally assess the situation in Murshidabad. He is likely to meet those impacted by the violence,” the official said.

The governor’s visit comes despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s public request to delay the trip, citing concerns over maintaining stability on the ground. Banerjee emphasized the need to first restore public confidence and avoid any premature interventions that might escalate tensions.

“We are providing ₹10 lakh as compensation to the family of each deceased victim. We will rebuild damaged houses and assist those whose shops were looted or destroyed,” Banerjee said, as reported by ANI. “The Supreme Court has instructed that the present situation be maintained until the next hearing. I urge the Governor to wait a few more days before visiting Murshidabad.”

The violence broke out in Murshidabad on April 11 during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Demonstrations quickly turned violent, resulting in the deaths of three people, injuries to many others, and widespread destruction of property.

In a parallel development, National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has also launched a two-day visit to the affected regions. She will tour both Malda and Murshidabad to meet displaced families, inspect relief camps, and evaluate conditions, particularly for women impacted by the unrest.

“The commission has taken suo motu cognizance of the violence that erupted during the protests on April 11 and 12. We have formed an inquiry committee to look into the matter,” Rahatkar said in a statement to PTI.

She further noted that the NCW had received reports of women being mistreated in relief camps. “We will be speaking directly with women in these camps to understand their condition and address any complaints. After assessing the situation on the ground, we will prepare and submit a detailed report,” she added.

The dual visits by both the Governor and NCW chief underscore the gravity of the situation in Murshidabad and the surrounding areas, as authorities seek to contain tensions and deliver relief to those affected by the recent outbreak of violence.