Three Muslims Killed in West Bengal
Three Muslims have been killed in separate incidents in West Bengal within days, triggering political tensions in the state. A political worker’s father was allegedly beaten to death in Bankura, while a Congress leader and his son were shot and hacked to death in Nadia. No direct link between the incidents has been established so far.
On Monday (August 17), CJP leader Ashutosh Ranka visited the family of Mohammad Mafik in Karishunda village of Indas, Bankura. Police have arrested eight people in connection with the killing. Mafik’s family alleged that attackers entered his home and beat him severely. He later died at Bardhaman Medical College and Hospital.
Mafik’s son Abdul Hafiz, a CJP activist, alleged that his father was targeted because of his political activities. Ranka demanded an impartial, court-monitored investigation and action against those responsible within 10 days. The family has refused state compensation and called for an international-standard school to be built in Mafik’s memory.
Earlier, on Saturday night, Congress leader Anisur Rahman, 54, and his son Abu Sufian, 23, were killed in Nadia. Police said attackers stopped their car near a railway underpass, opened fire and later hacked the two with sharp weapons.
The victims’ family alleged the involvement of local Trinamool Congress leaders. Police arrested Haranagar panchayat chief Fatema Bibi and her two associates, Saheb Ali Mondal and Mithu Sheikh. A court granted them nine days in police custody.
Police said the motive and involvement of others would be clear after the investigation. Meanwhile, political parties have traded accusations over the killings, but investigators have found no direct connection between the separate incidents.
