NIA: Assumes Control of Beldanga Violence Case Amid Central Review

NIA: The National Investigation Agency has formally taken charge of the investigation into the recent unrest in Beldanga, a town in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, following two days of violent protests earlier this month. The disturbances were triggered by the death of a migrant worker from West Bengal in neighbouring Jharkhand, an incident that led to widespread agitation and prompted judicial and administrative scrutiny.

Transfer of Investigation to Central Agency

According to official sources, the decision to hand over the probe to the NIA was implemented on Saturday. The timing of the move drew attention as it coincided with the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to West Bengal, where he was scheduled to attend political programmes in Barrackpore and Siliguri later the same day. Authorities, however, maintained that the transfer followed due legal process and court directions.

Background of the Beldanga Unrest

The violence in Beldanga erupted on January 16 after news spread of the migrant worker’s death in Jharkhand. Large crowds gathered in protest, blocking key transport routes including railway tracks and a national highway. The blockade continued for several hours, causing major disruptions to rail and road traffic in the region.

During the demonstrations, incidents of vandalism and clashes were reported. Protesters allegedly targeted police personnel and members of the media who were covering the situation on the ground. The unrest persisted into the following day, further affecting vehicular movement and public safety in the area.

Police Action and Arrests

Local police eventually intervened to restore order. A lathi-charge was carried out to disperse the crowds and clear the blocked routes. Following the restoration of basic movement, law enforcement agencies launched an investigation to identify those involved in the violence.

As part of this process, 36 individuals were arrested. Among those taken into custody was a leader associated with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, a political party headquartered in Hyderabad. Officials stated that the arrests were made after examining social media footage and reviewing recordings from closed-circuit television cameras installed in the area.

High Court’s Role in the Matter

The escalation of violence led to legal intervention, with a Public Interest Litigation filed before the Calcutta High Court seeking the deployment of central forces in Beldanga. The petition highlighted concerns over public safety and alleged inadequacy of local arrangements during the unrest.

While hearing the matter, a Division Bench of the High Court granted the Union government the discretion to assign the NIA to investigate the incidents of violence and tension that unfolded over the two-day period. The court noted the seriousness of the situation and the need for an impartial and thorough inquiry.

Deployment of Central Forces

In addition to allowing a central probe, the High Court directed that personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces be deployed in Beldanga until normal conditions are fully restored. The bench observed that additional CAPF companies could be sent if the situation demanded stronger security measures.

The judges also instructed the West Bengal government to ensure optimal use of the deployed central forces in sensitive areas affected by the unrest. The emphasis, the court said, should remain on protecting lives, property, and public infrastructure.

Accountability and Further Directions

The court proceedings followed a detailed hearing on a petition filed by Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly. The plea sought both central force deployment and an NIA-led investigation into the violence.

As part of its directions, the Division Bench asked the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police of Murshidabad to submit affidavits within 15 days. These affidavits are to outline measures taken to ensure security in the region and affirm responsibility for maintaining law and order during the recovery phase.