Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday expressed deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in West Bengal, terming it 'appalling.' Speaking to reporters, she said the state was witnessing a sharp rise in political violence, which was undermining democratic processes.
Mehbooba Mufti's Remarks on West Bengal
Mufti stated that the situation in West Bengal was 'extremely worrying' and called upon the central government to intervene. 'The law and order breakdown in West Bengal is appalling. Innocent people are being targeted, and political opponents are not being allowed to function freely,' she said.
Rising Political Violence
The PDP chief highlighted recent incidents of violence, including attacks on opposition party workers and vandalism of property. She urged the Election Commission and the Union government to ensure free and fair political activities in the state. 'Democracy cannot survive where violence becomes the norm,' Mufti added.
Her comments come amid allegations of increasing clashes between rival political groups in various districts of West Bengal. The state has witnessed several incidents of violence in the past months, with reports of arson, assault, and even deaths related to political conflicts.
Reactions from Political Parties
While the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) dismissed Mufti's allegations as politically motivated, opposition parties including the BJP and Congress echoed her concerns. BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar said, 'The law and order situation in Bengal has worsened under the TMC regime. We welcome Mehbooba Mufti's statement.'
Meanwhile, the West Bengal government maintained that it was taking all necessary steps to maintain peace. A senior TMC leader said, 'The state government is committed to upholding law and order. Baseless allegations by outside leaders will not divert us from our duty.'
Mehbooba Mufti, a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has been vocal about issues of governance and democracy across India. Her latest remarks add to the growing chorus of criticism against the law and order situation in West Bengal.
