Investigation – NIA Arrests Two More Accused in Malda Violence Probe
Investigation – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its probe into the incidents of violence and unrest linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal’s Malda district, leading to the arrest of two additional individuals accused of participating in unlawful activities during the disturbances.
The two arrested persons, identified as Maulana Imran Ali and Rinku SK, were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in incidents that included the wrongful confinement of judicial officers, obstruction of a national highway, disruption of public order, and attacks on police personnel carrying out official responsibilities during the electoral roll verification exercise.
Progress in the Ongoing Investigation
According to officials, the NIA has so far registered 12 separate cases related to the protests and violence that occurred in Malda. Chargesheets have already been submitted in four of these cases, while investigations continue in the remaining matters.
The latest arrests are linked to cases that are different from those in which chargesheets have already been filed. Authorities stated that 35 accused individuals connected to the Malda violence are currently in judicial custody as legal proceedings and investigations move forward.
Searches Lead to Fresh Arrests
The agency said that the arrests followed coordinated search operations conducted by NIA teams as part of the broader investigation. During the inquiry, investigators reportedly gathered evidence suggesting that both accused were active participants in gatherings that turned violent and allegedly engaged in acts of intimidation and obstruction during the SIR-related activities.
Officials believe the accused were involved in events that disrupted government work and contributed to tensions in the district during the electoral roll revision process.
Alleged Attacks on Police Personnel
Investigators have further alleged that the two men were among groups that confronted police officers deployed to maintain law and order during the protests. Several police personnel reportedly sustained injuries during these incidents.
One of the more serious episodes involved a police vehicle driver who suffered significant injuries after being struck on the head by a stone. Authorities stated that the impact caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, highlighting the severity of the clashes that took place during the demonstrations.
Supreme Court Directive and Wider Probe
The NIA took over the investigation following directions from the Supreme Court, which had taken suo motu cognizance of the violence reported in Malda earlier this year. Since then, the agency has been examining multiple incidents connected to the unrest.
Officials said efforts are continuing to identify additional individuals who may have played a role in the violence. Investigators are also examining whether there was any broader planning or coordination behind the series of incidents that led to attacks on officials, disruption of public services, and damage to law and order.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have indicated that the probe remains active across all registered cases. The agency is reviewing evidence, questioning suspects, and pursuing leads to determine the full extent of involvement of those connected to the violence.
With several accused already in custody and further inquiries underway, the investigation is expected to continue as officials seek to establish accountability for the events that unfolded during the electoral roll revision exercise in Malda.