Violent Clashes In Bengal’s Birbhum on Holi, Internet Suspended

Violent clashes between two groups in Bengal’s Birbhum district during Holi celebrations prompted the state government to suspend internet services and deploy security forces in Sainthia town. Over 20 individuals have been detained as police work to restore calm after the Friday incident.

The unrest began with a verbal dispute in Sainthia town involving a group and some intoxicated individuals. The situation escalated into stone-pelting and physical confrontations, leaving several locals injured. Police intervened with a mild lathicharge, bringing the situation under control by Friday evening.

The Bengal Home Department suspended internet and voice-over-internet services in five gram panchayat areas until March 17. The affected regions include Sainthia municipality, Hatora, Mathpalsa, Harisara, Fariyapur, and Fulur. The order allows voice calls and SMS to continue, with no restrictions on newspapers.

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Authorities reported no incidents of arson during the clashes. “The situation has been under control since last evening, and the internet has been suspended to curb the spread of misinformation,” a police official stated. Over 20 people linked to the violence have been detained as part of the ongoing investigation.

Union Minister and West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar condemned the incident, targeting the Mamata Banerjee-led government. “The government has turned Birbhum into a blast factory,” he said, citing past recoveries of crude bombs in the district. He added, “The West Bengal police have become defunct and lost their professionalism.”

A significant contingent of security forces has been stationed across Sainthia to maintain law and order. Police clarified that the measures aim to prevent further unrest and ensure public safety in the wake of the clashes. No fresh incidents were reported as of Saturday afternoon.

The police are continuing their probe into the cause of the clashes, with detained suspects under interrogation. Internet services will remain suspended until March 17, and authorities are expected to provide updates on the situation in Birbhum. The incident has reignited debates over law and order in West Bengal.