Howrah Biryani Clash: TMC and BJP Supporters Engage in Violent Confrontation Over Last Packet
In a shocking incident that unfolded in the early hours of Monday, a violent clash erupted in the Tikiapara area of Howrah, West Bengal. The confrontation, which began around 2 am, involved supporters of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stemming from a dispute over the last packet of biryani from a renowned shop located on Belilious Road.
Escalation of Violence and Police Intervention
According to police reports, the situation quickly escalated into a full-blown violent altercation. Both sides resorted to attacking each other with bricks, stones, glass bottles, and even bombs, creating a chaotic and dangerous environment in the neighborhood. The intensity of the clash necessitated immediate police action to restore order and prevent further harm to residents and property.
Arrests and Injuries Reported
In the aftermath of the violence, law enforcement authorities arrested four individuals directly involved in the incident. Among the casualties, a young man named Amir Khan suffered a severe head injury under tragic circumstances. While asleep in his flat, a stone hurled during the clash flew through an open window and struck him, resulting in a critical wound that required immediate medical attention.
Amir's brother, Shaukat Khan, expressed his distress over the incident, stating, "My brother required 17 stitches to treat the injury. We were attacked despite not being involved in the dispute or having any connection to the political groups." This highlights the collateral damage inflicted on innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire of political rivalry.
Property Damage and RAF Deployment
The violent outburst led to significant property damage in the area. Police officials confirmed that parts of the biryani shop at the center of the dispute, along with four residential flats, were vandalized during the clash. The severity of the situation prompted the deployment of the Rapid Action Force (RAF), a specialized unit of the Indian police, to control the unrest and ensure public safety.
Root Cause and Political Allegations
Local residents provided insights into the origins of the clash, revealing that it began with an argument between residents of Hara Chand Mukherjee Lane and Pakija Galli over purchasing the last packet of biryani. Former Trinamool councillor MD Selim commented on the incident, alleging, "BJP workers began to support one side of the argument, which prompted Trinamool supporters to protest in response. Many of those involved were intoxicated, which only worsened the situation and fueled the violence."
This incident underscores the volatile nature of political tensions in the region, where even minor disputes can spiral into large-scale confrontations with serious consequences. The involvement of political party supporters in such altercations raises concerns about the impact on community harmony and public order.
