Violent protests against SIR in West Bengal, mob set BDO office on fire; stone-pelting on police, ₹2 million loss

Kolkata (The Uttam Hindu): Violence broke out in West Bengal on Thursday during protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. In the Chakulia area of Uttar Dinajpur district, an angry mob stormed the office of the Block Development Officer (BDO), vandalised government property, and set the building on fire.

According to officials, furniture, computers, and important government files were destroyed in the blaze, causing an estimated loss of nearly ₹2 million. When police reached the spot to control the situation, protesters allegedly pelted stones at them, injuring the Station In-Charge of Chakulia police station.

Following the incident, the police registered an FIR and detained 10 people. Considering the tense situation, heavy police deployment has been made in the area to prevent further violence.

Fire set to documents, fire brigade blocked

Protesters claimed they were being repeatedly harassed with notices related to voter list verification and hearings. In anger, the crowd entered the BDO office, broke computers, damaged furniture, and set official records and documents on fire. The mob also dragged office items outside and burnt them, while doors and windows were smashed.

The situation worsened when protesters blocked roads and set tyres on fire to stop fire brigade vehicles from reaching the spot, delaying efforts to control the blaze.

Election Commission confirms incident, tight security assured

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal confirmed the incident and stated that Golpokhar-2 BDO Sujoy Dhar has filed a written complaint at Chakulia police station. The complaint mentions large-scale damage to government property and injuries to officials.

The Election Commission said the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) have assured strict security arrangements at all SIR hearing locations across the state. Police have begun an investigation and promised swift action.

BJP accuses TMC of incitement

The incident has also triggered a political row. BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of provoking violence. He claimed that protests are taking place mainly in Muslim-dominated areas and alleged that TMC legislators are deliberately inciting people to obstruct the SIR process.

According to Majumdar, the violence is aimed at preventing the proper revision of voter lists in West Bengal.