Amid ongoing unrest in Murshidabad’s Jangipur and Shamshergunj areas, West Bengal Police have arrested two men in connection with the brutal killings of Hargobindo Das (72) and his son Chandan Das (40) in Dhulian. The father-son duo was allegedly hacked to death by miscreants in the Samserganj block, triggering widespread outrage and fear.
Arrests Made
The two prime suspects, identified as Kalu Nawab and Dildar Nawab, who are brothers, were arrested on Monday night from separate locations:
- Kalu Nawab: Apprehended near the Indo-Bangla border in Suti
- Dildar Nawab: Caught in Murarai, Birbhum, near the Jharkhand border
Both are currently in police custody and have been produced in local courts. Police officials allege that the duo played an active role in instigating violence and may be part of a larger network.
SITs Formed; CID, STF, IB Involved
To probe the violence thoroughly, the West Bengal Police have constituted Special Investigation Teams (SITs) with members from:
- Criminal Investigation Department (CID)
- Special Task Force (STF)
- Intelligence Bureau (IB)
These agencies are working jointly to investigate murders, looting, arson, and rioting, as well as trace those spreading fake news and provocative content online.
A senior officer said:
“We have gathered all relevant CCTV footage and are using advanced tech to identify attackers. Intelligence gathering is also underway to trace any links with banned PFI cadres or illegal Bangladeshi migrants.”
Digital Crackdown: 1,093 Social Media Accounts Blocked
In a significant digital intervention, authorities have blocked 1,093 social media accounts over the past two days to prevent the spread of fake news, hate speech, and communal propaganda. Repeat offenders could face stringent legal action, sources confirmed.
Officials said these accounts were allegedly used to:
- Circulate doctored videos
- Spread misinformation
- Incite communal tensions
Fear, Displacement, and Security Measures
The violence has forced hundreds of Hindu families to flee their homes in Murshidabad and seek shelter in Malda, where they are now living in temporary relief camps.
To prevent further escalation:
- Central forces and local police have increased patrolling in sensitive zones.
- Authorities are maintaining tight surveillance on digital platforms and focusing on community outreach.
The situation remains tense, but with coordinated efforts from multiple agencies and increased security presence, the administration hopes to restore peace and ensure justice for victims.
